Kenya’s Rising Starlets will host neighbors Tanzania in a high-stakes FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday, February 7.
This third-round, first-leg encounter is a battle for regional supremacy and a crucial step toward the 2026 World Cup in Poland.
The Starlets enter this round with momentum after a commanding 4-1 aggregate victory over Ethiopia, while Tanzania won their second-round tie by a big aggregate victory of 7-0 against Angola.
ALSO READ: Rising Starlets thrash Ethiopia to book Third Round spot in FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers
Rising Starlets vs Tanzania preview
Coach Jackline Juma named a final 23-player squad dominated by the Junior Starlets who competed in the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.
Skipper Fasila Adhiambo is the biggest name in the squad with the Simba Queens Attacking Midfielder expected to lead the side.
Hilder Natecho and Pauline Namisi have earned their spots for the first time after impressing during the training camp.
The team will however miss lethal winger Joan Ogola out with a knee injury.
The Tanzanite Queens will be banking on Winfrida Gerald to deliver away with the prolific goalscorer in fine form for club and country heading into this fixture.
Their Goalkeeper Janeth Shija will also be a threat with the custodian boasting of top flight experience and past qualifier matches involvement.
Coach Jackline Juma focused on the psychological aspect of the game, acknowledging that Tanzania’s experience requires a high level of mental resilience from her squad.
“We were keen on selecting players who are mentally strong because this is a big stage. Tanzania have players with national team experience, so we needed players who can match that level.”
On his part ,head coach Bakari Shime understands that they need an important result away in the first leg.
” We know the importance of the first leg in Nairobi and we have worked to ensure that we are both mentally and physically ready.
The committment is high and the attitude is positive and we are ready for the match.”
A win for Kenya would be a massive step ahead of the second leg with one foot in the fourth and final round while Tanzania will be hoping to upset the hosts at home and potentially set up a final round tie against Botswana or Cameroon.