It’s fantastic to see the impact that players from Madira Assassins have had on the national U-17 girls’ team, helping secure a spot in the upcoming World Cup.
Coach Francis Muhambe must be incredibly proud of their achievements. Kenya’s victory over Burundi, with a 2-0 win in the second leg of the final U-17 World Cup qualifiers, demonstrates the team’s talent and determination.
With an aggregate score of 5-0 over both legs, Kenya has earned its place alongside Nigeria and Zambia to represent Africa in the tournament scheduled for October in the Dominican Republic.
“For these girls to be part of the national team and help them qualify for the World Cup is truly a dream come true,” Muhambe expressed.
“It showcases the hard work, dedication, and talent that exists within our club and the importance of nurturing young athletes from the grassroots level.”
Muhambe believes that recognizing the role of grassroots coaches is crucial for the sustained growth of sports.
“I urge the Ministry of Sports to acknowledge and support the coaches who work tirelessly to develop these young players.
“Their efforts lay the foundation for our national teams’ success and the future of sports in our country,” he stated.
However, Francis Muhambe’s calls on the Football Kenya Federation to actively include young players in the national senior teams.
According to him, this strategy is essential for nurturing talent and ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled athletes ready to compete at higher levels.
“Including young players in the national senior teams is not just a way to develop their skills but also to build their confidence and experience,” Muhambe explained.
“It allows them to learn from seasoned players and adapt to high-stakes environments, which is invaluable for their growth and the future of our national teams.”
Absolutely, the success of the Madira Assassins players highlights the importance of proper nurturing and support in unlocking the potential of young athletes.
It’s a testament to the talent that exists within the FKF Women’s Premier League and the impact that dedicated coaching and development programs can have on players’ growth and achievements.
As the Junior Starlets gear up for the World Cup, they carry with them not just their individual skills but also the collective effort and dedication of their clubs and coaches who have helped shape their journey to international success.