Kenya’s Junior Starlets are on the brink of making history following a commanding 3-0 first-leg victory against Burundi in their FIFA U17 World Cup qualifier match on Sunday at Abebe Bikila Stadium in Ethiopia.
From the opening whistle, the Junior Starlets displayed a sense of purpose, quickly asserting their dominance on the pitch. It wasn’t long before their efforts bore fruit.
In the 11th minute, Lorna Faith broke the deadlock, giving Kenya an early lead and setting the tone for the rest of the match.
As the first half drew to a close, Marion Serenge struck in the 43rd minute, doubling the Junior Starlets’ lead and providing a comfortable cushion heading into halftime.
The second half saw the Junior Starlets maintain their dominance over Burundi. In the 71st minute, Susan Akoth added a third goal, effectively sealing a crucial away victory and putting the team in a strong position ahead of the second leg.
With a 3-0 lead, the Junior Starlets are just 90 minutes away from qualifying for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. The return leg is set for Sunday, June 16, at Ulinzi Sports Complex. A successful qualification would mark a historic achievement, as it would be the first time a Kenyan national team has reached the global stage.
The team’s impressive performance has ignited hopes and excitement among fans and supporters, who eagerly await the decisive match. Should the Junior Starlets maintain their form, they will secure their place in the history books and inspire future generations of Kenyan footballers.
