The Junior Starlets face a tough challenge in their quest for back-to-back World Cup appearances after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Cameroon in the first leg of their final round of qualifiers. The match took place at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, April 20.
Coached by Mildred Cheche, the Starlets were left frustrated on a rainy afternoon as they failed to capitalize on numerous scoring opportunities. They ultimately regretted a single decisive moment from Cameroon in the first half.
The Starlets almost took an early lead when Brenda Achieng was sent through on goal in the 11th minute, but her shot struck the crossbar. Cameroon managed to convert one of their few chances, taking the lead following a corner kick.
In the 25th minute, a momentary lapse in the Kenyan defense allowed Cameroonian captain Fraiche Tiwa Melong to head in a deflected cross past goalkeeper Velma Abwire. This marked the first goal Kenya had conceded during the qualifying rounds, having previously triumphed 5-0 against their neighbors, Uganda.
In an effort to stabilize the unsettled midfield, Cheche substituted Achieng for Lindey Weey Atieno shortly after the hour mark. However, the Starlets struggled to create more opportunities, with Elizabeth Ochaka’s wayward shot from distance being their only near chance before halftime.
Another substitution at the start of the second half, bringing in Mitshel Waithera for Joy Angela Valencia, seemed to energize the Starlets, as she tested Cameroonian goalkeeper Jessica Mabou. Mwanakombo Bakari also came close, hitting the crossbar with a powerful shot from outside the box, while several other chances went awry.
Joan Ogola missed a clear opportunity, looping a shot over the goal after making a run from the left, and Edinah Nasipwondi shot over the bar around the hour mark. Patience Asiko almost leveled the score, but Mabou made a crucial save to keep the ball just off the line.
As the match wore on, the Starlets continued to push for an equalizer, while the Baby Lionesses from Cameroon wasted time and managed to maintain their lead. Despite one final effort from Asiko in the last minute, the game ended with the Starlets still trailing.
Having suffered a home-leg defeat, the Junior Starlets now prepare for the decisive second leg, which will take place at Olembe Stadium on Friday, April 25.
