Why Kenya’s U-20 girls' team played male teams in World Cup qualifier friendlies

Kenya’s national women’s under-20 head coach Jackline Juma has explained why the Rising Starlets faced male teams in friendly matches, as part of their preparations for Saturday’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Tanzania.

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According to Juma, the decision was aimed at toughening her players both physically and mentally, while raising competition levels within the squad ahead of the crucial tie.

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Juma says the friendlies came at the right time, especially after the team spent the opening weeks of camp focusing heavily on match fitness.

“I think it was a good chance to give us the competition we needed, given that we were working a lot in the first two weeks on match fitness. So I can say the performance was good. Winning against the boys one match, the other match we lost 2-0,” she said.

The Rising Starlets lost 2-0 to Highway Secondary School, before bouncing back to thrash Mang’u High School 5-2 in a behind-closed-doors friendly.

They also faced Kariobangi Sharks Youth team, where they suffered another defeat.

Despite the mixed results, Juma believes the matches have boosted morale and sharpened competitiveness within the squad.

The tactician expressed confidence in her players, insisting that the team will settle for nothing less than victory against their East African rivals.

She also highlighted the importance of playing the first leg at home, noting that the technical bench is keen to make full use of the advantage.

“The girls are psyched up, they are ready, they have trained so well and I think we are looking for positive results tomorrow. If you win your first match, I think it is a plus for us. We do not know what might happen away, but of course we have home advantage, which we are going to use well,” she said.

A number of players in the Starlets squad already have international experience despite their young age, having featured at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.

While Juma acknowledges this as a major boost, she insists that every player selected is ready to deliver, regardless of prior international exposure.

“You cannot compare the U-17 with the U-20, but they are giving the competition that is needed. They have really stepped up well. It’s a blend of the U-17s, school players and those playing in the league. I think we have a good team that is ready to compete,” she added.

Juma also expressed relief that the squad has avoided major injuries as they put the final touches on their preparations at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.

The Rising Starlets will host Tanzania at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday as they chase another historic milestone, qualification to a FIFA World Cup.

Kenya’s Junior Starlets became the first-ever Kenyan team to qualify for a FIFA World Cup when they sealed a place at the 2024 U-17 Women’s World Cup.