Junior Starlets step up preps for Namibia double-header in WC qualifiers

Kenya's national U17 women's team, the Junior Starlets, have stepped up preparations ahead of their FIFA U17 Women's World Cup qualifier against Namibia, with head coach Mildred Cheche outlining the approach guiding the team's build-up.

The Junior Starlets will face Namibia in a two-legged tie, with the first leg scheduled for April 12 away from home before Kenya hosts the return match on April 18.

The fixtures mark a key stage in the qualification pathway, as the team seeks to secure progression to the next round.

Cheche acknowledged the transition within the squad, noting that the current group reflects a shift following the elevation of several players to the U20 level.

"We have a young squad, a new one because most of our players transitioned to the under-20. So we selected a young team from various parts of the country," she said.

The changes have necessitated a renewed focus on integration and understanding within the squad, with the technical bench prioritizing cohesion as preparations enter the final phase.

Kenya heads into the fixture without prior experience against Namibia at this level, adding an element of uncertainty to the encounter. However, the coaching staff has centered its preparations on internal strengths and adaptability.

"Against Namibia, we've not played them before, so this is the first time. We don’t know their playing style, so we are preparing ourselves for how best we know we can do, and then we see how it goes because it’s one game at a time," Cheche added.

Training sessions in camp have been structured to sharpen tactical awareness and match fitness, with emphasis placed on ensuring the players can respond effectively to different in-game situations.

With the first leg set to be played away, Kenya will be aiming to manage the tie strategically across both matches, before returning home for the decisive second leg as they continue their push for World Cup qualification.