Junior Starlets captain Elizabeth Ochaka is optimistic about making history by reaching the semifinals of the 2024 FIFA Under-17 World Cup, set to take place next month in the Dominican Republic.
As debutants, the team will train in Marbella, Spain for two weeks, and they are excited about their upcoming global challenge, with a semifinal spot as their goal.
“We are incredibly proud to be the first Kenyan team to qualify for a World Cup at any level. We don’t fear any opponent because we know our capabilities, and we’re determined to create more history,” said Ochaka.
In addition to leading a defense that has yet to concede a goal in four matches, the 16-year-old defender also scored a goal, earning a move from Shiraha Starlets to FKF Women Premier League champions.
“Spain is a bit cold, but we are adjusting well in preparation for the tournament. The facilities here are excellent, and the team is in high spirits. All we need to do is follow the coach’s instructions,” she added.
Head coach Mildred Cheche, who trained the girls in a three-week local camp before departing for Spain, remains confident in their ability to advance to the semifinals.
Cheche and her technical staff made the tough decision to drop 12 players, including Claire Meris, Sheryl Amuok, and Mitshelle Waithera, due to injuries.
“We’ve made improvements in areas where we had weaknesses. Playing internationally is different from local competitions, as we will face the best teams in the world. While we may start as underdogs in our debut, I find that exciting,” Cheche noted.
The 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will run from October 16 to November 3. Kenya will kick off their campaign against England on October 18, followed by a match against Korea DPR on October 20, and they will conclude Group C play against Mexico on October 24.
This year’s tournament will be the last to feature 16 teams before expanding to 24 for the next edition, which will be hosted in Morocco, marking the first time the tournament will be held in Africa.
