Rising Starlets turn up the heat ahead of Ethiopia World Cup qualifier clash

Kenya’s U-20 women’s football team, the Rising Starlets, are stepping up their preparations for the upcoming FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Ethiopia.

As part of their build-up, the Starlets recently tested themselves in a friendly against the Glorions U-16 boys’ team, a deliberate move by the technical bench to sharpen their edge ahead of the September 21 first-leg clash.

“These matches are crucial for us to assess our strengths and identify areas that need improvement. The players are adapting well and showing great hunger,” she said.

The provisional squad has swelled to around 60 players, though Juma admitted documentation hurdles and school commitments have forced some rotations.

“We have been recalling players because of documentation challenges, while others are still in school preparing for exams. Despite that, it’s important to have a large pool in camp,” she explained.

The coach added that reinforcements from the Chapa Dimba tournament and players currently featuring for Kenya Police Bullets FC in the ongoing CAF Women's Champions League CECAFA qualifiers will soon bolster the squad.

On tactics, Juma emphasized the importance of striking early away from home.

“We aim to score away goals, so we are focusing on building fitness, attacking sharpness, and solid defending.”

The Rising Starlets remain in residential training, fine-tuning team chemistry, set pieces, and mental toughness as they eye Ethiopia and a step closer to the World Cup.