England coach has paid glowing tribute to Kenya's Junior Starlets for offering her team tough competitiin at the ongoing Women's U17 World Cup.
Young Lionesses coach Natalie Henderson has commended Kenya’s U-17 Women’s national football team, the Junior Starlets, as formidable opponents during the ongoing U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.
The England U-17 women’s team, drawn into Group C with the Junior Starlets, has advanced to the semi-finals after a gripping match against Japan.
The Young Lionesses secured their spot in the semi-finals through a dramatic penalty shootout, having drawn 2-2 with Japan in regular time.
Goals from Erica Parkinson and Zara Shaw allowed the English side to come back from behind twice, ultimately leading to a 4-1 victory in the shootout at Estadio Felix Sanchez.
09:16 - 26.10.2024
Junior Starlets land in the country to celebratory reception after historic U-17 Women's World Cup debut
The Junior Starlets were treated to a hero's welcome earlier this morning at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport upon their arrival.
Henderson reflected on the challenges posed by the tournament, sighting Kenya in particular at the group stages.
“These tournaments are really tough. We’re playing against different nations that play different styles of football. They’re challenging us in different ways, so we’re enjoying that. As much as the games are tough, we embrace the challenges.” said Henderson via Tata Sport.
“Kenya was really tough, especially in our first game. We knew they would be physical, with a lot of character and spirit.”
Facing tough competition in the group stage, the Junior Starlets exited the tournament early after suffering defeats of 2-0 and 3-0 to England and North Korea respectively.
14:37 - 25.10.2024
‘We said kaende kaende’ – Junior Starlets history maker Valarie Nekesa shares impact of U17 World Cup win over Mexico
Junior Starlets player Valarie Nekesa, who scored Kenya’s first-ever World Cup goal during the FIFA U17 tournament, feels it will act as a major motivation for future success.
Goals from Valarie Nekesa and Lorna Faith Wasike marked a historic debut for the team, leaving them with their heads held high.
The Young Lionesses will face Spain in the semi-finals, carrying forward the spirit of competition and sportsmanship that characterised their encounter with the Junior Starlets.