Junior Starlets coach eyes squad boost ahead of Cameroon clash

Junior Starlets coach eyes squad boost ahead of Cameroon clash

Junior Starlets coach Mildred Cheche hailed her team's preparation and execution after a 3-0 victory over Uganda Women U17 secured a 5-0 aggregate win in the 2025 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup qualifiers. Uganda coach Sheryl Botes conceded Kenya's superior quality as the Starlets advanced to face Cameroon in the final qualifying round.

Junior Starlets coach Mildred Cheche expressed satisfaction with her team's performance after securing a 3-0 victory over Uganda Women U17 in the second leg of the 2025 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup Second Qualifying Round at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday. The result gave Kenya a 5-0 aggregate win.

"We had prepared well for this match and I am happy for the win. The match against Cameroon is also going to be tough and between now and then, I will explore ways of beefing up the squad," Cheche said.

Uganda Women U17 coach Sheryl Botes admitted that Kenya were the superior team despite her tactical preparations.

"Our team is still a work in progress. Despite having analysed the Kenyan team exhaustively, there is still a gulf in class between us and them. They had players who have played in the World Cup and that made the difference," Botes stated, while remaining committed to improving Uganda Women's football.

Both coaches made two changes to their starting line-up from the first leg, reflecting contrasting approaches to the match.

For the Junior Starlets, Mwanakombo Bakari ceded her place in central midfield to Brenda Awuor, who partnered with captain Halima Imbachi in a double-pivot. Patience Asiko took the centre-forward role from Brenda Achieng', with Joan Ogola and Edinah Nasipwondi providing support from the wings.

Uganda Women U17 maintained an unchanged front three of Charity Katusiime, Nusulah Nakintu, and Dorine Ajuat. Captain Agnes Nabukenya and Mariam Namataka retained their spots in central midfield, with Loyce Komugusha replacing Shadia Nabirye.

The Junior Starlets’ next challenge will be against Cameroon Women U17 in the third and final qualifying round for the 2025 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup, set to take place in Morocco from October 17 to November 18.

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