Kenya’s Rising Starlets produced a composed and determined performance to secure a narrow but vital 1–0 victory over Tanzania in a fiercely contested East African derby, played at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi. The win gives Kenya a crucial advantage in the third round of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers, keeping their continental dream firmly alive.
From the opening whistle, the match had all the intensity expected of a Kenya–Tanzania encounter. The tempo was high, tackles were committed, and both sides showed tactical maturity beyond their years. Kenya looked confident in possession, while Tanzania remained compact and disciplined, refusing to be drawn out easily as the two teams battled for control across the pitch.
Clear chances were limited as both defences stood firm, turning the contest into a tense chess match. Midfield duels were fierce, and every inch of space had to be earned. As the clock ticked down, it seemed the game was drifting towards a stalemate – until a late moment of brilliance shifted the balance.
Introduced from the bench, Emily Morang’a injected fresh energy and vision, delivering a perfectly weighted pass into the danger area. Elizabeth Mideva, showing remarkable composure under pressure, made no mistake with the finish, calmly slotting the ball home five minutes from full time to ignite celebrations among the home supporters.
The goal proved decisive, giving the Rising Starlets a deserved reward for their persistence and discipline. It also hands Kenya a slim but valuable edge ahead of the return leg in Dar es Salaam, where the battle for qualification will be decided on aggregate.
For Kenya, the clean sheet and late breakthrough will boost confidence and belief going into the second leg. However, the narrow margin ensures there is no room for complacency. Tanzania, despite the setback, displayed resilience, physical strength, and tactical awareness throughout the match – qualities that suggest they will be formidable opponents on home soil.
As the dust settles on an intense first leg, one thing is clear: this tie is far from over. With pride, progression, and World Cup dreams at stake, the return fixture promises another gripping chapter in this growing East African rivalry.
