The Kenya U17 women’s football side, Junior Starlets, beat Mexico 2-1 to win their last Group C match in the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup at the Felix Sanchez Olympic Stadium in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic on Thursday.
Valerie Nekesa and Lornah Faith found the back of the net for Kenya in the 15th and 36th minute respectively to seal the sweet victory that marked the country’s first-ever win at a World Cup event.
Alexa Soto pulled one back for the Mexicans in the dying minutes of the game.
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At the same time, Faith was awarded the player of the match award for her good display on the pitch.
“My young squad wanted to win the encounter but a few blunders at the back cost us at the back. I must commend Kenya for scoring those two beautiful goals.
They were fast, strong and I think their players have a future in the sport if they stick together,” Mexico coach Rojas Jimena stated.
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On her part, Kenya’s coach Mildred Cheche said, “We are happy with the victory, at least we didn’t go home empty-handed. We cherish both the points and the player of the match award.”
Cheche reiterated that her wish is for the Kenyan girls to stick together and requested the federation and the government to ensure the players are helped to get more international friendlies and tournaments to give them exposure.
Kenya finished the tournament third overall in Group C on three points, while Mexico were last in the pool without a point.
Double champions North Korea, who thrashed England 4-0, finished top of the group on nine points.
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Kenya U17 Results at 2024
Kenya 0-2 England
Kenya 0-3 North Korea
Kenya 2-1 Mexico
Group C final standings
1.North Korea 9 points
2.England 6
3.Kenya 3
4.Mexico 0
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