Kenya’s Rising Starlets are bracing for one of their biggest tests yet as they prepare to face Ethiopia in the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers later this month.
The two-legged tie will be played in Addis Ababa between 19 and 21 September, before shifting to Nairobi a week later. The winner advances to the third round, edging closer to a place at next year’s tournament.
For the Kenyan players, it is more than just a fixture. It is a chance to prove that their progress in women’s football is no accident.
Midfielder Susan Akoth, who has faced Ethiopia at under-17 level, knows the scale of the challenge. “It won’t be easy because Ethiopia is a tough opponent,” she said. “But we are preparing well, and as a team we are determined to be ready for the challenge.”
Leading the line will be 17-year-old striker Valerie Nekesa, already a familiar name after scoring Kenya’s first-ever goal at a FIFA World Cup during the under-17 tournament in the Dominican Republic last year.
Nekesa joined the training camp later than most but insists the team spirit has carried her through. “The mood in camp is alright,” she said. “I came in a bit late, but I’ve caught up fast, and the energy among the girls is very positive.”
At the back, Ulinzi Starlets defender Lorin Ilavonga expects a tactical contest. “This will be a tactical battle,” she explained. “Whichever side follows the coach’s instructions best will come out on top.”
Head coach Jacqueline Juma has built her squad around a mix of promise and experience. Many, like Velma Abwire, Scovia Awuor, Rebecca Odato and Halima Imbachi, were part of the Junior Starlets who caught global attention at the U17 World Cup. They are now joined by seasoned players including Fasila Adhiambo and Emily Moranga, offering balance in a youthful side.
As the Rising Starlets train in Nairobi, the mission is clear: to silence Ethiopia and move a step closer to a place on the world stage. For a generation of players still carving out their path, the next fortnight could define the future of Kenyan women’s football.
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