1. The “Iron Sharpening Iron” Strategy
In the two weeks leading up to the February 7 clash, Jackline Juma took an unconventional route. To simulate the physical intensity and speed they would face in Dar es Salaam, the Starlets played three friendly matches against male youth teams.
The Reality Check: A 2-0 loss to Highway Secondary School exposed defensive gaps that Juma quickly plugged before the Tanzania game.
The Confidence Booster: They bounced back with a 5-2 thrashing of Mang’u High School, proving that their attacking trio of Valarie Nekesa, Sharon Vida, and Elizabeth Mideva could find the net against faster, more physical opponents.
The Outcome: The “Starlets” entered the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday looking physically “unshakeable,” absorbing everything the Tanzanite Queens threw at them.
2. The Veteran Core: From Dominican Republic to Poland?
A major factor in Juma’s confidence is the psychological “armor” her players wear. Seven of the starters in the 1-0 win are veterans of the 2024 U17 World Cup.
Experience at the Back: Defenders Elizabeth Ochaka and Lorine Ilavonga have already played against world-class strikers from England and Korea.
The Captain’s Calm: Fasila Adhiambo has transitioned from a promising junior to a commanding U20 leader, dictating the tempo of the midfield.
Goalkeeping Depth: While Velma Abwire (the U17 hero) is ready, Juma opted for the experienced Christine Adhiambo in the first leg to ensure maximum stability—a gamble that resulted in a crucial clean sheet.
3. 90 Minutes from the “Final Hurdle”
The 1-0 lead is slim, but it puts Kenya in the driver’s seat for the fourth and final round.
The Math: A draw or any win in Dar es Salaam on February 14 sends Kenya through.
The Reward: The aggregate winner will face either Cameroon or Namibia in the final round of the CAF qualifiers.
The Slots: Africa has four direct slots for the 24-team World Cup in Poland. If Kenya wins the next round, they are officially World Cup bound.
