Former Harambee Starlets head coach Alex Alumira has expressed confidence in Kenya’s Rising Starlets, backing them to overcome Tanzania and book a place in the final qualification round for the 2027 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup. Jackline Juma’s charges secured a narrow but crucial 1-0 victory over their East African neighbours in the first leg played on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex. Elizabeth Mideva netted the decisive goal in the 84th minute, handing Kenya a slim advantage ahead of the return leg. The second leg is set for Saturday, February 14, at the Azam Complex Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Alumira Praises Team’s Mental Strength
Alumira, who also serves as the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Head of Football Education and School Football Programs, said the first-leg result had boosted the team’s confidence heading into the away fixture. He lauded coach Jackline Juma for instilling resilience and mental toughness in the squad.
I’m confident they will go to Tanzania, perform well, and qualify for the final round. I watched the first leg and was impressed by the mental strength the coach has built in the team
Alex Alumira He noted that a large portion of the squad previously featured in the Kenya U17 team that played at the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic, highlighting the existing chemistry within the group and the technical bench led by Juma and Mildred Cheche.
Warning Over Tanzania’s Home Advantage
Drawing from his experience in women’s football, Alumira cautioned that Tanzania will be more aggressive playing at home and urged the Kenyan defense to remain compact and disciplined.
This is a big stage. With the first-leg advantage, the players must stay focused and mentally strong. Tanzania will attack more at home, so our defense must be solid
Alex Alumira While fans have been suggesting tactical adjustments, including introducing forward Emily Moranga earlier, Alumira defended the coach’s decisions, saying player fitness and match readiness are best judged by the technical bench.
The coach understands her players better based on training. We should give her space to lead. I believe the team will get the job done and qualify
Alex Alumira Team Prepares in Dar es Salaam
The Rising Starlets arrived in Dar es Salaam on Monday, February 10, and have since been training in preparation for the decisive clash. Should Kenya eliminate Tanzania, they will advance to the final qualification round where they are set to face either Botswana or African heavyweights Cameroon. The winner of that tie will secure a coveted spot at the 2027 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, scheduled to take place in Poland from September 5 to 27, 2027.
