Kenya’s Rising Stars have officially written their names into the history books after a sensational performance in the U-20 AFCON CECAFA qualifiers.
The young Kenyan team secured their place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a resounding 4-0 victory against Burundi in the semifinals held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
This historic achievement marks Kenya’s first-ever qualification for the Under-20 AFCON, sparking immense pride and hope for the future of Kenyan football.
A Second-Half Surge Seals the Deal for Kenya
The Rising Stars entered the match against Burundi knowing that only a win would ensure their qualification for the prestigious U-20 AFCON tournament, set to take place in January 2025 in South Africa.
Despite a tense first half, which ended goalless, Kenya exploded into life in the second half, delivering a breathtaking performance that left Burundi in their wake.
The floodgates opened in the 52nd minute when Lawrence Okoth calmly slotted in a close-range finish, putting Kenya ahead.
With this triumph, the team has advanced to the final of the CECAFA U20 Championships and, for the first time ever, secured a spot in the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
This achievement marks a pivotal moment in Kenyan football, showcasing the immense talent and dedication pic.twitter.com/oA0hZlECtu
— Min. of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports (@moyasa_ke) October 18, 2024
The lead ignited the Kenyan side, who began dominating the game with intensity and precision. Just 14 minutes later, Hassan Beja capitalized on his blistering pace to double Kenya’s advantage.
Burundi, rattled and unable to regain their composure, conceded again in the 69th minute when Aldrine Kibet carved through their defense and found the back of the net, making it 3-0.
The icing on the cake came in stoppage time when substitute Louis Ingavi made an instant impact, netting Kenya’s fourth goal in the 93rd minute.
With that, the Rising Stars completed a historic victory, booking their spot in the AFCON finals alongside Tanzania, who edged Uganda 2-1 in the other semifinal.
This qualification is a landmark moment for Kenya’s U-20 team. It is the first time that a Kenyan men’s junior side has earned a spot at the AFCON, a tournament that showcases the best young football talent from across the continent.
The Rising Stars’ performance has brought a fresh wave of excitement and optimism to Kenyan football, especially after years of mixed results from the senior Harambee Stars.
Assistant coach Anthony Akhulia revealed ahead of the tournament that the team had drawn inspiration from the U-17 Rising Starlets, the Kenyan girls’ team that recently made history by qualifying for the World Cup.
Following in the footsteps of the Starlets, the Rising Stars delivered on their promise, giving Kenyan fans something to cheer about.
Head coach Salim Babu’s side will now prepare for the final of the CECAFA U-20 Championship, where they will face Tanzania in a showdown to determine the regional champion.
Kenya and Tanzania met earlier in the tournament’s group stage, with the Rising Stars securing a 1-1 draw. The rematch promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams have already secured their AFCON spots but will be eager to claim the CECAFA crown.
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Tactical Masterclass from Kenya
Kenya’s qualification was not just the result of individual brilliance but also a testament to the team’s tactical discipline and preparation.
The first half against Burundi was a cagey affair, with both teams creating chances but failing to convert. Burundi’s goalkeeper, Ramadhan Ndikumana, made several crucial saves to keep his team in the game, frustrating the Kenyan attackers.
However, Kenya’s coaching staff made smart adjustments during halftime, and the Rising Stars came out with renewed energy and determination.
The team pressed high, forcing mistakes from Burundi and exploiting spaces in their defense. The introduction of fresh legs, including Louis Ingavi, added even more firepower, and Kenya never looked back after scoring the opener.
The team’s defensive solidity has also been a key factor in their success. Kenya has conceded just one goal in the tournament so far, and goalkeeper Ibrahim Wanzala will be looking to maintain his clean sheet record in the final. Wanzala’s performances between the posts have been outstanding, putting him in contention for the Golden Glove award.
The standout performances of players like Aldrine Kibet, who is now one of the top scorers in the tournament with four goals, have raised hopes that this could be the beginning of a golden generation for Kenyan football.
Kibet, a forward from Nastic Sports Academy, has been clinical in front of goal, and his attacking prowess has been vital in Kenya’s journey to the final.
With the team now heading to the AFCON finals in South Africa, there is growing excitement about what this talented group of players can achieve on the continental stage.
For Kenyan football fans, the Rising Stars’ qualification is more than just a ticket to the AFCON; it represents the potential for long-term success and a brighter future for the national team.
Tanzania Awaits: The CECAFA Final Showdown
Before shifting their focus to AFCON 2025, the Rising Stars have one more hurdle to overcome: the CECAFA U-20 Championship final against Tanzania.
The match promises to be an intense affair as the two East African powerhouses battle for regional supremacy. Both teams have shown resilience and skill throughout the tournament, and fans can expect a closely contested final.
For Kenya, lifting the CECAFA trophy would be the perfect way to cap off a historic campaign, while Tanzania will be looking to defend their home turf and claim the title in front of their supporters.
