Junior Starlets Qualify for 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup After Beating South Africa

Kenya’s Junior Starlets have qualified for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after beating South Africa 3-1 at Nyayo National Stadium to complete a 5-1 aggregate victory.

The team, coached by Mildred Cheche, recovered from conceding an early goal in the second leg to secure the win. Gaudencia Maloba, Brenda Awuor and substitute Elizabeth Alizeba scored for Kenya, confirming the country's place at the expanded 24-team tournament in Morocco later this year. 

The result also secured the Junior Starlets a second consecutive appearance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, the first time a Kenyan football team has achieved back-to-back qualification for the competition. The victory was followed by celebrations on and off the pitch. 

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, now the leader of the National Economic Development Party, donated Sh1 million to the team during an impromptu harambee. He said the contribution was intended to reward the players for their performance and encourage them ahead of the tournament.

President William Ruto also congratulated the team during a video call shortly after the match. He praised the players for their achievement and pledged the government's support as they prepare for the tournament in Morocco. Football Kenya Federation officials also expressed their backing for the squad.

Cheche, who had urged her players to remain focused despite Kenya's first-leg advantage, became the first Kenyan coach to guide a national team to two FIFA World Cup tournaments. Her achievement reflects the progress made under her leadership and the team's consistent performances during the qualification campaign.

South Africa briefly raised hopes of a comeback when captain Katleho Malebana scored early in the match. Kenya responded with three goals to regain control and secure qualification with a comfortable aggregate victory.

The qualification campaign attracted strong support from fans through the #BringTheGameHome campaign, with thousands attending the match at Nyayo National Stadium. Before the fixture, Maloba had called on supporters to fill the stadium, and the large crowd provided a lively atmosphere throughout the game.

Kenya will now turn its attention to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, where the Junior Starlets will aim to build on their appearance at the 2024 tournament.