Kenya U20 Starlets name squad for Ethiopia World Cup Qualifiers
By Kenneth Mwenda, September 18, 2025Kenya U20 Women’s National Team head coach, Jackline Juma, has confirmed her final squad for the second round of the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Ethiopia, according to details released by FKF on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
The Rising Starlets will travel to Addis Ababa for the first leg on Sunday, September 21, 2025. The match will be staged at the Abebe Bikila Stadium and will kick off at 3:00 pm EAT.
The return fixture will take place a week later, on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi. Kick-off is also scheduled for 3:00 pm EAT.
Fasila Adhiambo will captain the team, with Lorine Ilavonga serving as her assistant. The aggregate winner of this tie will progress to the third round of the African qualifiers.
Kenya had earlier announced a provisional squad on September 6, which included over 30 players. Since then, the technical bench has reduced the number after two training camps. Players were assessed on performance, fitness, and tactical readiness. The final list includes a balance of experienced names and young players who were promoted from the U17 side.
Goalkeepers: Christine Adhiambo, Velma Abwire, Ephy Awuor
Defenders: Elizabeth Ochaka, Vidah Akeyo, Triza Sheryl, Lorine Ilavonga, Ruth Akinyi, Patience Asiko, Quinter Adhiambo
Midfielders: Rebecca Odato, Fasila Adhiambo, Beverlyn Awuor, Jerrine Adhiambo, Halima Imbachi, Pearl Olesi
Forwards: Diana Ochol, Emily Morang’a, Mitchelle Waithera, Lornah Faith, Elizabeth Mideva, Valarie Nekesa, Edina Nasipwondi
Youth and experience combined
The squad reflects some changes from the provisional list, with several players missing out. Among those who have secured places are youngsters such as Velma Abwire, Lornah Faith, and Valarie Nekesa, who were part of the Junior Starlets squad at the recent U17 World Cup in the Dominican Republic. Their inclusion shows the technical team’s plan to blend youth and experience.
Kenya enters this stage after receiving a bye in the first round. Ethiopia overcame Djibouti to set up this tie. The winner of the two legs will meet either Tanzania or Angola in the third round in February 2026.
Coach Juma and her staff will now focus on fine-tuning tactics ahead of the away fixture. The team is expected to leave Nairobi later this week to allow players time to adjust before Sunday’s match in Addis Ababa.