Junior Starlets Face Tough Japan Test in Historic U-17 World Cup Knockout Match

Kenya’s Junior Starlets are preparing for a major challenge against Japan in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, following their historic qualification for the knockout stage.

The Kenyan team booked its place in the last 16 after defeating Samoa 4-0 in their final Group E match on October 25, 2026. The victory marked an important milestone for Kenyan football, as the team progressed beyond the group stage of a FIFA World Cup for the first time.

According to the Football Kenya Federation, the Junior Starlets will face Japan on Thursday, October 29, at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Morocco. Kick-off is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. East African Time.

Kenya’s victory over Samoa was led by Mwanakombo Bakari, who scored twice. Brenda Awuor and Gaudancia Maloba also found the net, helping the team secure the convincing result needed to remain in the competition.

The win came after a difficult start to the tournament, with Kenya losing its opening matches against China and the United States. However, the players responded with a strong performance against Samoa, demonstrating determination and improved attacking ability.

The Football Kenya Federation confirmed the historic qualification in its official report: https://footballkenya.org/news/junior-starlets-make-history-by-reaching-world-cup-round-of-16-for-the-first-time

Japan presents a difficult test for the Kenyan side. The Asian team has a strong record in the competition and won all three of its group matches without conceding a goal, according to tournament reports.

For the Junior Starlets, Thursday’s encounter will provide an opportunity to build on their historic achievement and demonstrate that Kenyan women’s football can compete against some of the world’s strongest youth teams.

Kenyan supporters will be hoping the team can maintain the confidence displayed against Samoa and produce another memorable performance on the international stage.

Regardless of the result, reaching the Round of 16 represents a significant step forward for the Junior Starlets and offers valuable experience for the future of women’s football in Kenya.

Thumbnail idea: A photograph of the Junior Starlets celebrating their victory over Samoa.

Thumbnail headline: JUNIOR STARLETS FACE JAPAN

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