The Kenyan U-17 Women’s National Team, the Junior Starlets, have written themselves into national sporting folklore after a resounding 3-0 victory over Burundi in the first leg of their FIFA U-17 World Cup Qualifier. This dominant display at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Ethiopia puts them a tantalizingly close 90 minutes away from a historic first – Kenya’s maiden appearance at a World Cup, regardless of gender or age group.
From the opening whistle, the Starlets displayed a steely determination. Their relentless pressure paid off early in the 11th minute when midfield maestro Lorna Faith smashed home the opener, sending a wave of ecstatic cheers through the travelling Kenyan contingent. This early lead served as a springboard for the Kenyans, who continued to dictate the tempo of the match. Right before the half-time break, the tireless work of the Starlets’ forward line was rewarded once more. A perfectly weighted pass found the feet of Marion Serenge, who coolly slotted the ball past the Burundian goalkeeper to double Kenya’s advantage.
The second half saw no respite for the Burundians. The Starlets continued their relentless assault, refusing to settle for a comfortable lead. Their hunger for a decisive victory finally manifested in the 71st minute. Susan Akoth, a constant thorn in the Burundian defense throughout the match, capped off a brilliant individual performance by adding a third goal. The strike effectively sealed the fate of the contest, sending a roar of delight through the Kenyan bench and leaving the Burundians with a mountain to climb in the return leg.
The stage is now set for a monumental clash at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Sunday, June 16th. With a commanding 3-0 lead in hand, all the Starlets need is a resolute performance to etch their names in Kenyan sporting history. The entire nation will be behind them, urging them on as they strive to become the first-ever Kenyan national team to grace the grand stage of a World Cup. The dream is within reach, and the Starlets are poised to make history.
