FIFA U-17 (WWC): Kenya cruise past Namibia in first leg

Kenya women’s U-17 side made a strong statement in their FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign, edging Namibia 2-1 in a lively first-leg encounter.

Kenya wasted no time settling into the match, striking early and with intent. Lindey Weey opened the scoring just two minutes in, setting the tone for a dominant start.

FT#JuniorStarlets carry an advantage into the second leg pic.twitter.com/CL1qvo3bNG

— Harambee Starlets (@StarletsKE) April 12, 2026

Moments later, Faith Boke doubled the advantage in the 6th minute, capping off a blistering opening spell that left the hosts reeling.

Kenya dictated the tempo

Those two quick-fire goals not only gave the Starlets control of the game but also highlighted their confidence in possession. Throughout the first half, Kenya dictated the tempo, moving the ball with purpose and limiting Namibia’s chances to respond.

After the break, Namibia returned with renewed energy, pushing forward in search of a way back into the contest. Their persistence paid off late in the game, as they managed to pull one back towards the end of the match.

Despite the late setback, the Junior Starlets will take confidence from their overall performance and the crucial away victory.

Attention now shifts to the second leg, set for April 18, 2026, at the Ulinzi Complex, with kickoff scheduled for 3PM. With a place in the second round at stake, the Starlets will be looking to finish the job on home soil.

Fixtures

Namibia 1-2 Kenya | April 12 | Windhoek Unam Stadium
Kenya vs Namibia | April 18 | Ulinzi Sports Complex

Kenya Final Squad;

Goalkeepers; Mitshel Ng’ono, Martha Wekhomba, Vallary Achieng.

Defenders; Pauline Namisi, Sheila Atieno, Faith Boke, Idah Matara, Grace Mumo, Rose Nangila, Brenda Awuor.

Midfielders; Bevarline Awuor, Gaudancia Maloba, Mwanakombo Bakari, Lindey Weey Atieno, Beryl Awuor, Fleviah Khatenje, Noela Akuku.

Forwards; Brenda Achieng, Patience Waithera, Emilly Adhiambo, Elizabeth Alizeba, Ivy Atieno, Tabitha Wambui.