The Harambee Junior Starlets have made history by becoming the first-ever Kenyan football team to qualify for a FIFA World Cup.
The youngsters beat Burundi 2-0 on Sunday and 5-0 on aggregate to advance for the U-17 showpiece to be staged in the Dominican Republic in October.
The game held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex saw first-half goals from Marion Serenge and Valerie Nekesa give the Starlets an edge in the tie.
The qualification led to celebrations around the stadium and Kenyans on social media who revelled in the historic milestone.
The team’s head coach quoted by the Standard said the real work has now begun after the qualification was confirmed.
“I’m glad the girls played their hearts out and qualified for the global competition. What I can say is that our job starts now because we have to prepare well and be ready for the tournament,” Cheche said.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga shared a congratulatory message to the youngsters after the epic win.
A historic moment. Our Harambee Junior Starlets have qualified for the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup in style, this afternoon, defeating Burundi 2-0 (5-0 on aggregate) at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata. We celebrate them for their great achievement.” Raila said.
Other leaders who sent messages included James Orengo, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, and CS Kipchumba Murkomen among others.
