Head coach Mildred Cheche has named her final 23-player squad to represent Kenya in the opening round of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Namibia, as the Junior Starlets begin their quest for a place on the global stage.

Cheche has largely retained the core of the squad that featured in previous qualifying campaigns, underlining a strategy built on continuity and cohesion.

The decision reflects confidence in a group that has already developed chemistry and experience at this level.

Among the key returnees are Lindey Weey, Brenda Awuor, Mwanakombo Bakari, Grace Mumo, Faith Boke, Brenda Achieng and Fleviah Khatenje players expected to provide leadership and stability as Kenya navigates the two-legged tie.

Midfielder Bevarline Awuor, who recently stepped up to feature for the U-20 side in the World Cup qualifiers against Ethiopia, earns a spot in the squad and will captain the team. Brenda Awuor has been named her deputy.

There is also a notable return for Tabitha Wambui, who rejoins the national set-up after progressing through the U-15 ranks a sign of the growing development pathway within Kenya’s youth football structures.

Cheche emphasized that selection was firmly based on tactical discipline and technical quality, revealing a shift towards a more aggressive playing style.

“Key factors for selection were heavily based on technical and tactical ability. This is a more aggressive team because of the players we’ve recruited. Most of them are hungry to perform and win the match,” she said.

The Junior Starlets head into the fixture with a clear objective secure a positive result away from home and build a solid foundation for the return leg.

Preparations have included intensive training sessions and build-up matches against top sides in the FKF Women’s Premier League.

Kenya will face Namibia in the first leg on April 12 at Windhoek’s UNAM Stadium, before hosting the return leg on April 18 at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.

With a blend of experience and emerging talent, attention now turns to how this carefully assembled squad will rise to the occasion as they seek another shot at continental and global qualification.

Fixtures
Namibia vs Kenya — April 12 (Windhoek, UNAM Stadium)
Kenya vs Namibia — April 18 (Ulinzi Sports Complex)

Final Squad

Goalkeepers: Mitshel Ng’ono, Martha Wekhomba, Vallary Achieng

Defenders: Pauline Namisi, Sheila Atieno, Faith Boke, Idah Matara, Grace Mumo, Rose Nangila, Brenda Awuor

Midfielders: Bevarline Awuor (C), Gaudancia Maloba, Mwanakombo Bakari, Lindey Weey Atieno, Beryl Awuor, Fleviah Khatenje, Noela Akuku

Forwards: Brenda Achieng, Patience Waithera, Emilly Adhiambo, Elizabeth Alizeba, Ivy Atieno, Tabit