The Rising Starlets showed both promise and areas for improvement in their 1-1 draw against Ethiopia in the second round of the U-20 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers in Addis Ababa. Head coach Jackline Juma praised her team’s fighting spirit but emphasized that there is much work to be done ahead of the decisive return leg.
The match began in electrifying fashion as Kenya struck within the opening minute. Captain Fasila Adhiambo tested the Ethiopian goalkeeper with a powerful shot from outside the box. Although the attempt was parried, Elizabeth Mideva was perfectly placed to convert the rebound, giving the visitors a dream start.
Throughout the first half, the Rising Starlets relied on their pace on the wings to trouble the Ethiopian backline. They created several chances but failed to convert them, leaving the hosts within striking distance. Ethiopia grew into the game and began to dictate the tempo towards halftime.
In the second half, Ethiopia came out stronger and more organized. Their persistence paid off in the 65th minute when Daniel Emush capitalized on a defensive miscalculation by Christine Adhiambo to level the score. From that point on, Ethiopia dominated much of the play, while Kenya struggled to regain their rhythm.
Coach Jackline Juma expressed mixed emotions after the result. She praised her players for their resilience in difficult conditions, especially with the rain making play unpredictable. However, she admitted the team squandered numerous chances in the opening half and allowed Ethiopia to seize momentum after the break.
She highlighted defensive lapses, particularly susceptibility to penetration passes, as an area that must be urgently addressed before the second leg. On the attacking front, she pointed out the need for better coordination, sharper crosses, and improved link-up play in the final third.
Despite the setback, Juma remained optimistic, noting that an away goal is a valuable advantage in knockout qualifiers. She urged her players to stay focused and take full control of the return leg at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Sunday, September 28, where home support could tilt the tie in Kenya’s favor.
Defender Halima Imbachi echoed her coach’s sentiments, admitting that playing away was tough due to Ethiopia’s passionate support. She promised that the team would rise to the occasion in Nairobi, determined to secure a place in the next round.
The winner of this tie will advance to face either Tanzania or Angola in the third round of qualifiers scheduled for February 2026.
