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Junior Starlets are just one step from getting a ticket to the 2024 U17 World Cup finals after beating Burundi 3-0 on Sunday, June 9, 2024 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The junior women’s national team were dominant against their opponents as they secured a crucial first-leg win ahead of the return leg that is set to be held in Nairobi.

Meanwhile, Kenya took the lead in the 11th minute when Lornah Faith found the back of the net.

The lead was doubled when Marion Serenge scored in teh 43rd minute and Kenya were in the steering wheel going into the second half. In the 71st minute, Junior Starlets scored the second when Susan Okoth found the back of the net. 

Kenya are now in a very commanding position going into the second leg. Should they win, Junior Starlets will qualify for the World Cup, which will be historic as no team from the country has ever competed at that stage.

The second leg will be played on June 16.

Meanwhile, Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba lauded Starlets for their strong show in Addis Ababa.
“Super proud of you, my special girls. Yaani ile kupika tumewapika, mumeivaaaa! Soak in this massive win and enjoy every single moment. Then let’s finish the job at home in a week, halafu pack your bags for the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.

“Kenya’s first-ever appearance at any FIFA World Cup. Fruits of the Talanta Hela pipeline. Deliberate. Intentional. Structured,” the CS said in a statement on X.