As the football world eagerly awaits the FIFA Under 17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic in October, Ken Ndug’u, the head coach of True Talents of Africa (TTA) girls’ team, has expressed strong confidence in Kenya Junior Starlets’ potential.His faith in the team comes after Kenya U17 head coach Mildred Cheche on Thursday announced the 35-player provisional squad for the tournament, a selection that Ndug’u fully backs.“I believe in coach Mildred Cheche’s quality in the national team selection. She is a coach who knows what she does, and retaining key players is very important,” Ndug’u stated.Kenyan Paris Olympics athletes receive more millions at Athletics Kenya GalaHis confidence reflects his belief in continuity, suggesting that having experienced players in the squad will be instrumental in the team’s performance on the international stage.Ndug’u’s optimism is not limited to just a respectable finish, “I believe if we don’t get a podium finish, we will win it as a whole,” he boldly declared.He also emphasized the importance of thorough preparation, highlighting the squad’s planned trip to Spain for high-intensity training as a crucial step in their journey.##NAJAVA_MECA_8291075##”With good preparation and the team headed to Spain, I believe the girls will shake off the stage phobia, and I know we are going to perform well,” he offered.The inclusion of several KCSE candidates in the squad was another significant talking point for Ndug’u. He praised the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) for allowing players to sit for special exams, calling it “an amazing gesture”.According to Ndug’u, this decision underscores the country’s commitment to nurturing talent while ensuring that players do not compromise on their education.The millions Kariobangi Sharks will get from Stanley Wilson’s transfer to Sweden“It shows how serious the country has taken talent development and education combined,” he said.Ndug’u also offered a message of encouragement to the young players heading into the tournament.“My message to them is not to be frightened. It is a competition like any other. It is a high-level competition, but most of the players they are going to meet are also playing at this level for the first time. They should not complicate things but make it simple according to coach Mildred Cheche’s instructions,” he revealed.##NAJAVA_MECA_8291062##Irene Maithia, a player from the True Talents of Africa girls’ team, echoed her coach’s sentiments and expressed her aspirations.“As a female player in the game, I’m proud of the team, and I believe that one day I can also reach that level and represent my country,” she said.The players are expected to report to camp on Saturday 24 August where they will train for 17 days.Science says Eliud Kipchoge could technically run a marathon in under 1 hour 15 minutesFollowing this initial camp, the team will travel to Spain on Tuesday 10 September for an extended training period, continuing their preparations until they depart for the Dominican Republic on Tuesday 1 October.With the right preparation and mindset, the Kenya Junior Starlets are poised to make their mark in their maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic from October 16th to November 3rd, 2024.They will begin their campaign with a match against England on October 18th, 2024. Just two days later, they will face Korea DPR, before concluding their group stage fixtures on October 24th with a game against Mexico.
