The team suffered consecutive group-stage defeats and finished bottom of Group E. They opened with a 3-0 loss to China PR on 19 October, followed by a heavy 6-1 defeat to the United States on 22 October. Their final group fixture against Samoa took place on Sunday 25 October.
In the match against the United States, American forward Maddie DiMaria scored four first-half goals as the USA took control early. Kenya’s consolation goal came late through Lindey Weey Atieno, who became only the third Kenyan to score at a senior or youth World Cup finals.
Despite the results, the Junior Starlets’ presence at the tournament marked a significant milestone. It was only their second appearance at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, following qualification through a strong African campaign that included a 5-1 aggregate victory over South Africa.
Head coach Mildred Cheche and her young squad gained valuable experience against some of the world’s strongest under-17 sides. The campaign highlighted both the progress of Kenyan women’s youth football and the gap that still remains at the highest level.
Kenya will now turn attention to rebuilding and preparing the next generation of players with the lessons learned in Morocco. The Junior Starlets return home having represented the country with commitment on the global stage, even if the desired progression to the Round of 16 did not materialise.