Kenya has qualified for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the first time ever after beating Burundi 2-0 to seal an aggregate 5-0 victory in the two-legged qualifier.
Marion Serenge opened the scoring in the 17th minute before Valerie Nekesa sealed the win in the match played at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Nairobi.
The win hands the Junior Starlets a ticket for the Fifa Under-17 World Cup which will be hosted by the Dominican Republic in October and November.
Congratulatory messages trickled in quick and fast.
“Congratulations to the Junior Starlets on making history by qualifying for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the first time ever,” Tourism and Wildlife CS Alfred Mutua said.
“Your hard work and determination have paid off, and now the world will see your talent on the grand stage. We can’t wait to cheer you on in the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Your journey is an inspiration to us all. Go out there and shine!” he added.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko also congratulated the girls.
“Congratulations, Junior Starlets, for qualifying for the Under 17 Fifa World Cup. We are proud of you,” Sonko said.
Junior Starlets coach Mildred Cheche said was a big deal.
“As a team, we are motivated to do better. It’s a big deal for us.”
Junior Starlets dominated Burundi 3-0 in the first-leg encounter at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa.
The goals came from Lornah Faith, Marion Serenge and substitute Susan Okoth.
“This is a big moment for the players, our technical bench, FKF and the country at large,” Cheche said.
