FKF boss confident in Rising Starlets ahead of Ethiopia World Cup qualifier
Hussein assured the country that the federation had taken all necessary steps to prepare the squad for the upcoming challenge.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed has expressed confidence in the Kenya U20 Women’s National Team, the Rising Starlets, as they departed for Ethiopia ahead of their 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier.
Hussein met the team on Thursday for lunch before holding a closed-door session, after which he addressed the media. Hussein assured the country that the federation had taken all necessary steps to prepare the squad for the upcoming challenge.
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“We are confident about our under-20 girls team as they head out to Ethiopia for their qualifiers, and we are very confident that they will deliver for this country,” he said.
Hussein also thanked the Government of Kenya for its continued support, crediting President William Ruto and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya for their role in strengthening football structures. He urged Kenyans and private sector stakeholders to rally behind both national teams and local leagues.
“As we prepare for more competitions, it is my hope and expectation that we will get more support from the private sector. We want Kenyans to rally behind the Kenya Premier League, the Women's Premier League, the National Super League, and the youth and county leagues as well. Please be part of this renaissance, be part of this journey,” he added.
His address came just hours after head coach Jackline Juma unveiled her 23-player travelling squad for the Ethiopia tie.
The Rising Starlets will play the first leg on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa from 3:00 pm EAT, with the return fixture set for Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.
Midfielder Fasila Adhiambo will captain the team, assisted by defender Lorine Ilavonga. The winner of the two-legged tie will advance to the third round of the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
Travelling squad
Goalkeepers: Christine Adhiambo, Velma Abwire, Ephy Awuor
Defenders: Elizabeth Ochaka, Vidah Akeyo, Triza Sheryl, Lorine Ilavonga, Ruth Akinyi, Patience Asiko, Quinter Adhiambo
Midfielders: Rebecca Odato, Fasila Adhiambo, Beverlyn Awuor, Jerrine Adhiambo, Halima Imbachi, Pearl Olesi
Forwards: Diana Ochol, Emily Morang’a, Mitchelle Waithera, Lornah Faith, Elizabeth Mideva, Valarie Nekesa, Edina Nasipwondi
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