Copa tourney: Kenyan girls delight in big stage moment

Nangili Girls' Noel Oruko in action during this year's national games. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

"We want to go beyond Kenya," that was the desire of Moi Girls Nangili Under-16 football team after after winning the national title at Hill School, Eldoret in July this year. 

Their wish was granted yesterday when they took on Zimbabwe in the ongoing Under-16 Copa Coca-Cola Africa Cup of Nations at Nakuru High School.

The girls, now representing the country, were in high spirits and had already set another goal. 

"We want to go beyond Africa," team captain Irene Moraa said when we caught up with them in a pre-match interview.

Moraa and her teammates said they will not only be going for the trophy but also for individual awards. 

Moraa added that they were looking to excel and make it to the national Under-17 team for future international assignments.

"We are happy to be in a continental competition. Our dreams have come true and it is just the beginning. We want to play for Harambee Starlets but right now we are all looking to make it into the Under-17 team," said Moraa.

Midfielder Mercy Njeri said she will play her A game because she is eying the Most Valuable Player (MVP) accolade.

"National games were very tough but we gave our best and emerged victorious. Individual effort and teamwork was our secret to success and we intend to do the same here. I also want the MVP award and I will work hard," Njeri said. 

The girls vowed to conquer their guests saying they want to make the country proud. "We want the trophy to remain in Kenya," said Njeri.