National under-17 women’s football team, Junior Starlets, warmed up for their World Cup debut with a convincing 4-1 victory over Valencia Women CF in a friendly match at the Ciudad Deportivo Stadium in Valencia on Wednesday, 25 September, evening.The Starlets took the lead early when Madira Soccer Assassins’ forward Valerie Nekesa scored after only nine minutes. Nekesa then completed her brace in the 26th minute.Lindey Atieno extended the lead in the 35th minute, securing a 3-0 advantage for the Kenyan side at halftime.##NAJAVA_MECA_8361361##In the second half, coach Mildred Cheche’s squad continued to dominate, controlling play in the Spaniards’ half. Their persistence paid off when Atieno scored her second goal in the 56th minute.The hosts scored a consolation goal two minutes before the final whistle.F.TValencia CF Women 1-4 Junior Starlets#GoJuniorStarlets pic.twitter.com/nL7aOJabbd— Harambee Starlets (@StarletsKE) September 25, 2024 The Starlets have been in Spain for the past week, preparing for the Under-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.They are scheduled to face Portugal on Friday, 27 September, and Intercity on Monday, 30 September as part of their build-up.Benson Omala’s stay in Lebanon begins on sour note as league is suspended due to warThe FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup will run from Wednesday, 16 October to Sunday, 3 November.The Junior Starlets will open their group stage campaign on Friday, 18 October against England, followed by matches against Korea DPR on 20 October and Mexico on 24 October.Stars Abroad: Ouma, Makwata on target but suffer defeats##EDITORS_CHOICE##
