Rising Starlets brace for blazing battle with Angola in U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier

The Angolan U20 women football team is expected to land in Nairobi this Friday, ready to face the Rising Starlets in a crucial 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifier set for Sunday at the Nyayo National Stadium. 

The eagerly anticipated match presents not only a ticket for the prestigious World Cup but also an opportunity for redemption for the Rising Starlets following their previous early exit.

Angola’s traveling squad, meticulously selected by their coach Sandra Dias, reflects the South African nations’ commitment and seriousness towards this game. 

Coach Dias, an experienced strategist in youth women’s football, is anticipated to utilize a blend of tested talent and emerging stars in this crucial encounter, which could redefine the footballing narratives for either nation.

Over the years, Angola has been investing and focusing on nurturing young talent to place the country on the global football map. 

Jane Hato, Kenya’s captain and a pivotal figure in their midfield, voiced her confidence in seizing the home advantage to secure a win against Angola. 

“In the game against Angola, we won’t let them have it easy because we will be playing before home fans. We must win at home to make the second leg a formality,” she confidently told reporters as per The Star.

The Rising Starlets are keen on not repeating past mistakes, learning from their previous 3-10 aggregate loss to Uganda in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.

The upcoming match offers spectators an enthralling clash of determination versus spirit, with Angola’s resolute squad going head-to-head with Kenya’s spirited Rising Stars. 

Each team brings to the table a unique set of skills, strategies, and a burning desire to win, promising football fans a thrilling experience filled with unforgettable moments and stellar performances.

“I urge our fans to turn up in large numbers and support us and women’s football. I have faith that if we beat Angola in this World Cup qualifier, we will get to the World Cup,” added. Hato.

The stakes are higher than ever, with the World Cup now expanded to include 24 teams, up from the previous 16, presenting more opportunities for aspiring nations to participate. 

The winner of this electrifying tie will face either Cameroon or Botswana in the second round, bringing them one step closer to gracing the global stage in Colombia come September 2024.

Goalkeepers: Helena Kambinda (Atlético do Cunene), Maria Meucália (Chapesseca)

Defenders:  Avânia Augusto (Malú FC,  Carla António (1o D'Agosto) Domingas Ganga (Sol Nascente), Edvirgem dos Santos Gloriosos FC) Helena Ecundi (CDR  João de Ameida) Lídia Yolanda Lemos (Luanda City) Ruth Lopes(1o D'Agosto) Edvania Ngola (Sol Nascente) 

Midfielders: Adriana Luvango(Interclube), Domingas Luís (Interclube) Edmara Manuel (1° D ́Agosto), Florinda Benjamin (Associação Candumbo) Ivone Cândido (Petro de Luanda) Maria Isabel Silva (Gloriosos FC) Rufina Pedro (Petro de Luanda)

Forwards: Isabel Pedro (Progresso) Luana Menezes (Petro de Luanda) Maria Esperança (CN Benguela)