Wangaya stars as Emerging Stars thrash Tanzania in AFCON qualifier

Kenya’s Emerging Stars made a flying start to their 2027 U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, defeating Tanzania 4-1 at Nyayo National Stadium on Monday.

Captain Kevin Wangaya was the standout performer, scoring once and setting up another as Kenya took control of the first leg of the two-legged tie.

The hosts needed less than a minute to break the deadlock. Paul Osama struck early to give Kenya a dream start and leave Tanzania chasing the game from the outset.

Kenya controlled much of the opening half but were unable to add to their lead until stoppage time. Wangaya delivered a quality cross into the box, which Lawrence Ouma converted in the 45th minute to send the hosts into the interval 2-0 ahead.

Five minutes after the restart, Wangaya added his name to the scoresheet, extending Kenya’s advantage to 3-0 and putting the Emerging Stars firmly in command.

Tanzania were given a lifeline in the 54th minute when they converted a penalty to cut the deficit to 3-1.

Kenya responded calmly and continued to dictate the contest. Jack Onganya was introduced a minute later, replacing Henry Omollo, as the hosts looked to preserve their advantage.

The fourth goal arrived in the 75th minute when Kelly Madada found the net to restore Kenya’s three-goal cushion and put the result beyond doubt.

Wangaya’s goal and assist summed up an influential performance from the captain, while Kenya’s clinical finishing gave them a sizeable advantage going into the return fixture in Dar es Salaam on October 6.