Kenya Starlets Cruise Past Ethiopia In 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

^{Kenya Junior Starlets celebrating their victory over Ethiopia during their third round FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers at Ulinzi Sport Complex in Nairobi on Sunday May 19, 2024. PHOTO/ FKF}

By Christine Ojung’a

NAIROBI, Kenya-Kenya cruised past Ethiopia with a resounding 3-0 victory in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers held at Ulinzi Complex in Nairobi on Sunday.

The victory propelled Kenya to the fourth and final round of the qualifiers to be held later in the year.
Team captain Elizabeth Ochaka headed in a classic in the 43rd minute to give Kenya a 1-0 lead before the break.The lead gave the hosts a confident boost before resumption.

^{Kenya Junior Starlets in action against Ethiopia during their third round FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers at Ulinzi Sport Complex in Nairobi on Sunday May 19, 2024. PHOTO/ FKF}

Velma Awuor made it 2-0 with a well executed finishing in the 55th minute. Awuor proved she was the star of the show with her captivating skills that left spectators on the edge of their seats.

Lorna Faith sealed the victory for Kenya with a 69th minute strike to make it 3-0. The magical moment send the crowd into delirium. This victory propels the Junior Starlets into the fourth round of the qualifiers, bringing them just one step away from a historic first-ever World Cup qualification.
The next challenge for the Junior Starlets is a crucial tie against Burundi in the final round of the 2024 World Cup qualifiers.

The match will determine whether Kenya can secure its place on the global stage and compete in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup for the first time in history.