Rising Stars set for CECAFA tournament, eyes on AFCON qualification

Kenya’s under-20 national football team, the Rising Stars, is gearing up for the upcoming CECAFA tournament in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, with high hopes of qualifying for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The team concluded their final preparations with a training session in Thika, Kiambu County.

Head coach Salim Babu expressed confidence in his squad, revealing that all players are ready for the challenge ahead, except for one who will join the team in Tanzania.

“For us to play at the AFCON, we have to win CECAFA, and we are going to win. The morale is high, and we promise a good result,” Babu stated, urging Kenyan supporters to rally behind the team.

Captain Amos Wanjala, who currently plays in Spain for Athletic Club Torrellano, echoed his coach’s sentiments, emphasizing the support from both the government and coaching staff.

“We understand it will not be easy, but I believe my teammates and my coaches that we are going to win,” he affirmed.

The U-20 CECAFA qualifiers will take place from October 6 to 20, with Kenya placed in Group A alongside hosts Tanzania, Rwanda, Sudan, and Djibouti.

Defending champions Uganda will compete in Group B, which also includes South Sudan, Burundi, and Ethiopia.