Rising Starlets head coach Jackline Juma has confirmed her final squad ahead of Kenya’s two-legged encounter against Tanzania in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

The coach has largely stuck with the group that recently overcame Ethiopia, signalling confidence in the team’s progress, but has also introduced new faces and recalled familiar ones as she sharpens the squad for the regional showdown.

One of the standout returns is Jenevive Mithel, who rejoins the national fold after previously turning out for Kenya’s U17 side.

Her experience at youth international level is expected to bolster the backline as the Rising Starlets aim to control proceedings across both legs.

Also breaking into the squad are Hilder Natecho and Pauline Nalima, who have received their first-ever national team call-ups.

The pair impressed during training camp and now stand on the brink of their U20 international debuts.

Kenya will enjoy home advantage in the first leg on 7 February, with the match slated for the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.

The return fixture is scheduled for 14 February at the Azam Complex in Dar es Salaam, where the aggregate winner will advance to the next round.

With qualification on the line, the Rising Starlets will be eager to lay a strong foundation at home before crossing the border, as they continue their push towards a historic place at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

Rising Starlets Final Squad

Goalkeepers:
Christine Adhiambo, Velma Abwire (Ulinzi Starlets), Ephy Awuor (Soccer Assassins)

Defenders:
Jenevive Mithel (Nyakack Girls), Triza Ekesa (Gideon Starlets), Dorcas Glender (Ulinzi Starlets), Diana Anyango (Kenya Police Bullets), Elizabeth Ochaka (Kenya Police Bullets), Lorine Ilavonga (Ulinzi Starlets), Patience Asiko (Butere Girls), Pauline Namisi (Dessert Scorpions)

Midfielders:
Pearl Olesi (St Joseph’s Girls), Lornah Faith, Halima Imbachi (Kenya Police Bullets), Susan Akoth (Zetech Sparks), Jerrine Adhiambo (Mathare United Women), Vidah Akeyo (Kenya Police Bullets), Rebecca Odato (Kenya Police Bullets), Fasila Adhiambo

Forwards:
Valarie Nekesa (Soccer Assassins), Hilder Natecho (Arch Bishop Njenga), Emily Morang’a (Kenya Police Bullets), Elizabeth Mideva (Ulinzi Starlets)