Kenya qualify for FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2024

Kenya have qualified for the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup slated to take place in the Dominican Republic.

The Junior Starlets defeated Burundi 2-0 in the return leg of the last phase of the qualifiers on Sunday to qualify on a 5-0 goal aggregate.

Marion Serenge gave the hosts the lead after 17 minutes, before Valerie Nekesa made it 2-0 at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi. After recess the Burundi team camp all out to try and find some goals, but failed to break the Junior Starlets’ defending line.

Elizabeth Ochaka, the Kenyan captain said it was a dream come true to qualify for the World Cup. “We have worked so hard a team and we thank all the stakeholders for the support,” added Ochaka.

To reach the final stage of the qualifiers, Kenya earned a walkover DR Congo in the second round, and ejected Ethiopia 3-0 on aggregate in the third round.

Kenya secured the last slot after Nigeria and Zambia had qualified few days ago.

Nigeria were the first African team to secure a place at the women’s youth competition after defeating Liberia 6-1 on aggregate.

After their 3-1 win in the first leg Zambia held Morocco to a goalless draw on Saturday night to book their place.

The 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup that will attract 16 teams will take place in the Dominican Republic between October 16 to November 3rd, 2024.

Tanzania played at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup held in India.