Junior Starlets Player Ratings: Velma Awor & Marion Sirenge shine as Kenya make history

The Kenya National U17 girs side Junior Starlets achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first Kenyan team to qualify for a FIFA World Cup. 

They secured their place in the U-17 Women's World Cup, to be held in the Dominican Republic in October, by defeating Burundi 2-0 on the day and 5-0 on aggregate. 

First-half goals from Marion Serenge and Valerie Nekesa at the Ulinzi Sports Complex ensured a dominant performance, completing their journey to the World Cup without conceding a single goal.

Here are the player ratings for the history-making match, as assessed by Pulse Sports:

Velma Abwire - 7

Abwire had a quiet day, facing little threat from Burundi. She managed the few aerial balls that came her way efficiently and displayed decent kicking range.

Lorine Ilavonga - 7

Ilavonga effectively nullified Burundi’s winger, contributing with dangerous crosses and deep passes that troubled the Burundian defence.

Elizabeth Ochaka - 8

The captain and standout defender led by example, providing a composed presence that reassured her teammates. Ochaka also initiated attacks from the back, one of which created a significant scoring opportunity.

Christine Adhiambo - 7

Adhiambo, partnering with Ochaka, had a straightforward game, dealing well with any threats that came her way.

Kimberly Akinyi - 6

Akinyi was energetic, moving up and down the pitch, but her crossing accuracy left room for improvement.

Rebecca Odato - 8

Odato was a commanding presence in midfield, winning balls and laying the foundation for the more attacking players to shine.

Velma Awuor - 9

Awuor was one of the standout performers, providing a brilliant assist for Nekesa’s goal and showcasing excellent passing and play-switching abilities.

Susan Akoth - 7

Akoth effectively drifted between the lines, creating space for her teammates and playing a crucial role in the team's victory.

Lorna Faith - 7

Faith stretched the Burundi defence and came close to scoring immediately after kickoff, maintaining pressure throughout the game.

Marion Serenge - 10

Serenge was exceptional, scoring the opening goal and consistently threatening the Burundi defence with her skillful play both as a winger and centre forward.

Valerie Nekesa - 9

Nekesa scored the second goal and was a constant threat with her runs behind the defence, exploiting Burundi’s high line.

Waithera Muthama - 5

Muthama was brought on to help maintain the lead, performing her role to ensure the team's victory.

Joan Ogolla - N/A

Ogolla did not have enough time on the pitch to make a significant impact.

Lindy Weey Atieno - N/A

Atieno also had insufficient time to influence the outcome of the match.

The Junior Starlets' performance was a collective effort of solid defence, creative midfield play, and clinical finishing, earning them a well-deserved place in the U-17 Women's World Cup.