Rising Stars ring war bells ahead of Morocco clash in Cairo

Kenya Under-20 assistant coach Anthony Akhulia has declared that the Rising Stars are not in the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON U-20) just to "fill up the numbers".

The youngsters begin their debut at the continent’s grandest stage against former champions Morocco in Group B at the 30th June Stadium here in Cairo, Egypt on Thursday night.

Akhulia said despite few knocks in the squad they will parade a stronger line up against the 1997 champions.

“Without mentioning names, at least three players will be unavailable but from the squad of 25 players we will still have a good team to deliver on our plan," said Akhulia in a pre-match press briefing.

Captain Amos Wanjala echoed Akhulia’s sentiments saying Rising Stars have ambitions beyond just being a team present in the tournament

Wanjala, who currently features for Spanish third-tier side Athletic Club Torrellano, said their 2-2 result against Ghana proved they possess tools to hurt any side in Cairo.

“We conceded two goals but we have already worked out the mistakes and we promise to concede a few goals if we are too forced to, and we will work hard to achieve our World Cup slot target.”

Morocco head coach Mohammed Ouahbi praised the Kenyan side as a strong one which enjoys moving with the ball, something they will work to counter as they target the title.

Captain and striker Mouad Dahhak who plies his trade with Union Touarga in the Botola Pro League added that they have studied their opponents very well to know their strength and weakness.

“We have seen many Kenyan videos and we have also worked ahead of facing them where we know we will emerge victorious.”

Before the 9pm battle at the 30th Stadium on Thursday, Tunisia and seven-time champions Nigeria will face each other in another Group B match at the same stadium.