The Junior Starlets put on a dazzling display as they defeated the Dominican Republic U17 team 3-1 in their final friendly match on Tuesday, at the Centro Español ground.
The match started with a setback for the Junior Starlets, as the Dominican Republic team struck first, slipping one past Kenya’s defense in the 19th minute to take a 1-0 lead. But the celebration was short-lived. Just six minutes later, Valerie Nekesa showcased her attacking prowess by finding the back of the net to level the score at 1-1.
With momentum on their side, the Junior Starlets pressed on, and in the 31st minute, Marion Serenge seized her moment. With a determined run through the Dominican defense, she delivered a clinical finish to put Kenya in the 2-1 lead before the half-time whistle
The second half saw the Junior Starlets continue to pile on the pressure. A series of attempts led to a goal that was pure persistence. Jane Kweyu launched a shot that ricocheted off Joan Ogola’s leg, forcing a save from the keeper, only for the ball to land perfectly at the feet of Lindey Weey Atieno, who calmly slotted it home to secure a 3-1 victory for Kenya.
This match was the final friendly for the Junior Starlets ahead of the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. It has been crucial for refining tactics and building match fitness as the team prepares for their World Cup journey, which kicks off on October 16, 2024, and runs through to November 3, 2024. The Junior Starlets will face England on October 18, Korea DPR on October 20, and conclude their group stage campaign against Mexico on October 24
