Rising Starlets head coach Jackline Juma has voiced confidence in her team as Kenya prepares for a high-stakes third-round showdown against Tanzania in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.Kenya will host the first leg on March 7 at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, with kick-off set for 3:00 p.m. The decisive return leg will be played a week later on March 14 at the Azam Complex in Tanzania, starting at 4:00 p.m.
Squad Reduced as Preparations Gather Pace
As part of preparations, coach Juma has trimmed the provisional squad from 60 players to 32 following five days of intensive residential training. The technical team conducted thorough evaluations, focusing on player fitness, current form, and positional balance to ensure readiness for the two-legged contest. Juma explained that limited preparation time played a major role in the decision to cut down the squad.
Fitness Concerns, But Confidence Remains
The coach acknowledged that several players are still working their way back to full fitness but remained optimistic about the team’s ability to rise to the occasion.
Most of the players are managing fitness challenges, but we will push them to give their best. Tanzania is a strong and experienced side, with players who have featured at both U17 and U20 levels. We respect them, but we are preparing well and aiming for positive results
Jackline Juma Players Embrace the Challenge
Goalkeeper Christine Adhiambo expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress in camp, noting steady improvement, particularly among the goalkeeping unit.
Our training sessions have been productive, and we are improving with each session. The coach keeps reminding us that the match will not be easy, but she also motivates us to stay confident and apply what we learn in training
Christine AdhiamboShe added that while the players understand the magnitude of the task ahead, belief within the squad remains strong.
Fans Urged to Rally Behind the Team
With a place in the next qualification round on the line, football fans have been encouraged to turn out in large numbers at the Ulinzi Sports Complex to support the Rising Starlets as they continue their journey toward qualification for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
