The Kenya U17 women’s team, Junior Starlets, will lock horns with group C favorites North Korea, on Sunday night seeking their first win in the U-17 FIFA Women’s World Cup being held in the Dominican Republic.
The match will kick off at 23:00 at the CFC Stadium in Santiago de los Caballeros.
Kenya suffered a 2-0 defeat in their opening match against England and must win their remaining two matches if they are to have any chances of qualifying for the next round.
In contrast, North Korea started the tournament strongly, defeating Mexico 4-1.
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Marion Serenge, one of the Junior Starlets’ standout players, expressed optimism despite the first-game loss.
“Since it’s our first experience, I know we are going to perform better,” said Serenge. “It’s not that we have lost it all, it’s just the start. We believe we can make it.”
Junior Starlets captain Elizabeth Ochaka emphasized that they are not intimidated by North Korea’s previous 4-1 victory against Mexico.
“We are not afraid because we believe in ourselves. Despite Korea’s win against Mexico, we are strong and ready to face them,” she stated ahead of the match.
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Head coach Mildred Cheche noted that the team performed well in their opening game and aims for a better performance in the upcoming fixtures.
“Hopefully, in the next two games, we’re going to give our best,” she said.
In the previous match, Cheche utilized a three-defender setup, but she may make adjustments to strengthen the backline against North Korean striker Choe Rim Jong, who scored a hat trick against Mexico.
Kimberly Akinyi could be introduced to bolster the defense alongside captain Elizabeth Ochaka, Christine Adhiambo, Diana Anyango, and Lorine Ilavonga.
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In midfield, Halima Imbachi, Rebecca Odato, Lindey Weey Atieno, and Lorna Faith will retain their positions to maintain ball control.
Marion Serenge will lead the attack following her strong performance against England.
The match will be streamed live for free on FIFA+.1
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Kenya U17 possible lineup
Starting XI
1. Velma Abwire 12. Elizabeth Ochaka 19. Lorine Ilavonga 11. Diana Anyango 3. Kimberly Akinyi 15. Christine Adhiambo 17. Halima Imbachi 20. Rebecca Odato 14. Lorna Faith 8. Lindey Weey Atieno 10. Marion Serenge
Substitutes
16. Ephy Awuor 3. Valerie Nekesa 4. Jenevive Mithel 7. Quinter Odiwuor 9. Velma Awuor 5. Pearl Olesi 6. Susan Akoth 2. Joan Ogola
