Junior Starlets head coach Mildred Cheche and her captain, Imbachi, took part in a post-match interview to discuss their recent game against Cameroon at Nyayo Stadium and their strategy for the upcoming return match in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
The captain expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back, emphasizing the importance of training preparations.
“The game was good despite the loss. I know the coach has noted the areas we need to focus on in training,” said Captain Imbachi. “The Cameroon team is strong and physical, but I believe we can win if we approach the second leg with a positive mindset because football is more mental,” she added.
Cheche spoke with confidence, highlighting the team’s commitment to giving their all. Looking ahead to the crucial match . Here is what she had to say;
“It will be a very tough game, but we have everything to play for, while they [Cameroon] have everything to lose. We are going all out, and you could see in the second half how they performed.”
She also emphasized their game plan, especially in light of their performance at home.
“Psychologically, we need to instill a lot of mental toughness and fighting spirit. They already have it, but we have to enhance our speed, utilize our strengths, and aim to score an early goal to get back into the game.”
Commenting on time-wasting tactics, Cheche noted that it is a typical strategy for a team that is ahead.
“But it’s part of the game. When you’re leading, it happens during the match, so we have to be careful not to commit fouls, as they will go down easily. We need to minimize our fouls and make sure we capitalize on any scoring opportunities. That way, they won’t have the chance to waste time.”
Kenya will have an opportunity to turn the results around when the two sides meet for the second leg in Yaoundé, Cameroon, on Friday, April 25, 2025. The winner will secure a place in the World Cup, which is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 8 in Morocco.
