‘What FKF, government must do to build upon Under 17 World Cup heroics’

NAIROBI, Kenya, October 30, 2026 – As the historic World Cup journey of Kenya’s Junior Starlets comes to a close, head coach Mildred Cheche is already looking toward the horizon. Following Thursday’s courageous 3-1 defeat to global powerhouse Japan in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, Cheche reflected on a campaign that captured the nation’s imagination. But alongside the pride of reaching the knockout stages, the trailblazing tactician delivered a clear, uncompromising message to the government and the federation, sustainable success on the world stage requires...

Following Thursday’s courageous 3-1 defeat to global powerhouse Japan in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, Cheche reflected on a campaign that captured the nation’s imagination.

But alongside the pride of reaching the knockout stages, the trailblazing tactician delivered a clear, uncompromising message to the government and the federation, sustainable success on the world stage requires structural investment right here at home.

Against a technically polished Japanese side, the Junior Starlets left everything on the pitch.

Kenya displayed defensive discipline and tactical compactness during a fiercely contested first half, keeping the game tightly balanced.

However, as fatigue set in during the second half, minor defensive lapses near the box allowed the clinical Asian heavyweights to capitalize.

Source: Capital FM Sports