Kenya U20 Rising Starlets custodian Christine Adhiambo has disclosed the team’s plan to reach the required levels of preparation ahead of the World Cup U20 third-round qualifiers against Tanzania in Kenya on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

The custodian affectionately named “Safe Hands” shared her sentiments on Thursday, January 22, 2026, as the team stepped up preparations for the decisive first-leg clash against the Tanzanite Queens.

Tough encounter

“We expect a tough team and game from Tanzania. They are a team that knows what they want to achieve and reach. The coaches have impressed on us that we have to be at our best, and it’s what we are focused on: getting our preparation to the required levels,” she stated.

With the squad in camp set to be trimmed further, the 2025 member of the Butere Girls football team, Red Commandos, is among the budding stars hoping to kick-start their professional careers after completing their A levels last year.

Adhiambo, who has already had stints in and out of the Women’s senior team, Harambee Starlets, will be eyeing a slot in the final squad.

Her work is, however, cut out with the task of impressing in a competitive goalkeeping department comprising equally seasoned custodians such as Ephy Awuor and Velma Ademba.

Kenya U17 success

She has exuded optimism about getting to their best levels for the game.

“In our department the preparation has been top-notch. I am hopeful we will be ready and raring to go as the day for the clash nears,’ she added.

The clash as Kenya seeks to continue its fine run in the youth competition in the girl’s category.

Much of Jackline Juma’s team’s spine comprises the triumphant charges that conquered the region to qualify for the U17 World Cup held in the Dominican Republic a couple of years ago.

With the success now a thing of the past, coach Juma has cautioned against underrating the Tanzanite Queens as stakes go high during the first-leg showdown in Nairobi on Saturday. February 7, 2026.

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