Coach Jackline Juma has unveiled a vibrant and battle-ready Rising Starlets squad as Kenya prepares for a two-legged FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying clash with Tanzania. The selection blends the core that edged Ethiopia with fresh talent and returning faces, signalling a team hungry to take the next step on the road to global competition.
A squad built for momentum
Juma has largely stuck with the group that delivered in the recent win over Ethiopia, but she has also injected new energy where it matters. The balance of experience and youth gives the Starlets both stability and unpredictability — a combination Juma will lean on as the team chases a positive result at home before the decisive trip to Dar es Salaam.
Returns and debutants to watch
One of the headline inclusions is Jenevive Mithel, who returns to the national fold after featuring for Kenya’s U17 side. Her familiarity with international setups adds composure to the backline. Making their first senior U20 call-ups are Hilder Natecho and Pauline Nalima, two youngsters who have impressed in camp and are poised to taste international football for the first time.
Fixtures and objectives
The Rising Starlets host the first leg on 7 February at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, with the return leg set for 14 February at the Azam Complex in Dar es Salaam. Kenya’s aim is clear: secure a strong home result, then travel with confidence to finish the job and keep the dream of FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualification alive.
Final Squad
Goalkeepers
• Christine Adhiambo
• Velma Abwire — Ulinzi Starlets
• Ephy Awuor — Soccer Assassins
Defenders
• Jenevive Mithel — Nyakack Girls
• Triza Ekesa — Gideon Starlets
• Dorcas Glender — Ulinzi Starlets
• Diana Anyango — Kenya Police Bullets
• Elizabeth Ochaka — Kenya Police Bullets
• Lorine Ilavonga — Ulinzi Starlets
• Patience Asiko — Butere Girls
• Pauline Namisi — Dessert Scorpions
Midfielders
• Pearl Olesi — St Joseph's Girls
• Lornah Faith
• Halima Imbachi — Kenya Police Bullets
• Susan Akoth — Zetech Sparks
• Jerrine Adhiambo — Mathare United Women
• Vidah Akeyo — Kenya Police Bullets
• Rebecca Odato — Kenya Police Bullets
• Fasila Adhiambo
Forwards
• Valarie Nekesa — Soccer Assassins
• Hilder Natecho — Arch Bishop Njenga
• Emily Morang'a — Kenya Police Bullets
• Elizabeth Mideva — Ulinzi Starlets
The road ahead
With a squad that mixes proven performers and exciting newcomers, Jackline Juma has handed herself a toolbox full of options. The Rising Starlets now have a fortnight to sharpen tactics, build chemistry, and turn anticipation into action as they chase a place on the world stage.
