Junior Starlets v Uganda: Possible Lineup, Time and Where to Watch the Match

Destiny awaits the Kenya Under-17 women’s national football team, the Junior Starlets, as they prepare for a crucial encounter against Uganda in the second leg of their second-round qualifier for the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup.

The highly anticipated match is set to take place at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday at 3:00 PM EAT.

With a 2-0 advantage from their first-leg triumph in Kampala, the Junior Starlets are just one step away from progressing to the final qualification round. 

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A win or a draw will secure their spot, where they will face Cameroon, who recently eliminated Ethiopia with a dominant 6-2 aggregate victory. 

Kenya is aiming for back-to-back World Cup appearances, following their historic participation in the 2024 tournament held in the Dominican Republic.

Despite carrying a healthy lead, the Junior Starlets are taking nothing for granted. Team captain Halima Imbachi stressed the importance of maintaining full concentration in the return leg..

“We are treating this game as if the score is still 0-0. We respect Uganda as a strong opponent, and we know they will fight hard. Our goal is to stay focused, play our best football, and ensure victory in front of our home fans,” said Imbachi.

Head coach Mildred Cheche reinforced the need for discipline and commitment, reminding her players that complacency could be costly.

“The job is not done yet. We expect Uganda to come with an aggressive approach, and we have worked on our tactics to counter that. Our players understand the importance of this match, and we are fully prepared to get the result we need,” said Cheche.

A draw would be enough for Kenya to advance, and even a 1-0 loss would still see them progress. However, the team is determined to secure another convincing win to boost morale heading into the final qualifying round.

The crucial encounter will kick off at 3:00 PM EAT on Sunday, March 17, 2025, at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. This match provides an excellent opportunity for Kenyan football fans to witness the country’s rising young talents as they strive for World Cup qualification.

Playing at home is a significant advantage for the Junior Starlets, who will count on the passionate support of their fans. The stadium’s atmosphere is expected to be electric, with supporters rallying behind their team for a historic result.

Uganda, meanwhile, will be fighting to overturn their two-goal deficit. They are expected to adopt an attacking strategy early in the match, meaning Kenya’s defense will need to be alert and well-organized.

For fans unable to attend the match in person, live coverage will be available on the Harambee Starlets Facebook page. This allows supporters from all over the world to tune in and cheer for the Junior Starlets as they push for qualification.

The decision to stream the match ensures that Kenyan football enthusiasts and international viewers can follow the action. 

Women’s football is growing rapidly in Kenya, and this match is another opportunity to showcase the country's young talents on a broader platform.

Starting XI: Velma Abwire (GK), Brenda Achieng, Edinah Nasipwondi, Elizabeth Ochaka, Halima Imbachi (C), Jenevive Mithel, Joan Ogola, Judith Nandwa, Lindey Weey Atieno, Lorine Ilavonga, Mwanakombo Bakari.

Substitutes: Scovia Awuor (GK), Anifa Bakari, Brenda Awuor, Faith Boke, Joyangela Valencia, Mitshel Waithera, Patience Asiko.