Junior Starlets ready for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup

By Robert Mutasi 

The stage is set as the much-awaited FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup 2024 begins today in the Dominican Republic, where teams from all parts of the globe will compete for the prestigious title. 

Among the teams participating, Kenya's Junior Starlets will be making their highly-waited entrance in Group C among other impressive opponents: Korea DPR, Mexico, and England.

Back home, the Junior Starlets have captured the imagination of fans by gracing the headlines as they stepped into the limelight of this international competition.

It is nothing short of an incredible journey to this global tournament-powered by passion, hard work, and a strong desire for recognition on the world stage.

This tournament is a big milestone back home for the women's football fraternity, especially at a time when investment and development of talent at the youth level in the country have started to take promising shape.

Having finished preparations back home, the Junior Starlets are all set to prove that they belong among the best as they take on their first test in Group C.

Their opponents in the group are indeed ones to reckon with: Korea DPR has a good record in youth football, Mexico has enormous football traditions, and England is very organized and competitive.

Despite the stiff competition, Kenya's youthful talent and determination may yet see them emerge as surprise contenders in this tournament.

The teams are to be shared in four groups it has been revealed by the official draw.

Group A further comprises the host country Dominican Republic, Ecuador, New Zealand, and Nigeria, in addition to Group C, which comprises Kenya. 

Group B defending champions are Spain, alongside USA, Korea Republic, and Colombia. 

Meanwhile, Group D comprises powerhouses Japan, Poland, Brazil, and Zambia.

First-time participants, the Junior Starlets take on some of the best teams in the world, but for them, it is a bigger story of growth and improvement in women's football in Africa.

Equally competing in the same group will be Nigeria, meaning this tournament gives the continent a chance to showcase to the world its talent pool.

Starting today, the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup begins, and all eyes will be on the Junior Starlets as they look to leave an impression and carry the hopes of the nation.