Kenya’s Junior Starlets lost 1-0 to Cameroon’s Baby Lionesses in the last round of FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifying at Nyayo National Stadium.
The game began with drama. Kenya’s goalie, Velma Abwire, made a slip-up in the third minute but recovered. A mistake by Cameroon’s goalie, Mabou Jessica, gave Kenya a corner. Judith Nandwa’s delivery did not lead to a goal.
Kenya was on top early. Brenda Achieng almost scored in the 14th minute, hitting the post in a one-on-one. Cameroon had a chance too, but Tiwa Melong was caught offside in the 10th minute.
Joyangela Valencia led a strong attack for Kenya and was fouled, getting Cameroon a yellow card. Even with Kenya’s pressure, Cameroon was first to score. Tiwa Melong Lys Fraiche headed in a corner from Ngassa Yolande in the 30th minute, a tough hit for Kenya.
Coach Cheche made a fast change, subbing on Lindey Atieno for Achieng. Kenya won a free kick soon after, but Elizabeth Ochaka shot over the bar. The half ended 1-0 to Cameroon. Kenya’s captain, Halima Imbachi, got a yellow card for protesting time-wasting.
In the second half, Kenya started strong. Substitute Mwanakombo Bakari hit the post, and Mitchel Waithera almost scored on the rebound. Waithera had another big chance but was stopped by a great save from Cameroon’s goalie.
Kenya kept up the pressure. Lindey Atieno and Patience Asiko had shots saved, while Asiko also hit the post—Kenya’s third time hitting the woodwork in the game.
Cameroon slowed the pace with frequent breaks. Their coach, Joseph Ndoko, got booked for dissent.
Kenya brought on more fresh players, including Asiko, who scored in the 3-0 win over Uganda, hoping to score. Despite pressing and winning many corners, they could not equalize.
The second match will be on April 25 at Stade Olembe in Yaoundé. Kenya must win to keep the dream of playing at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup alive. This year’s event, held in Morocco, runs from October 7 to November 8, 2025, showing the best young players worldwide.
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