Kenya will kick off their 2024 COSAFA Cup campaign with an opening Group B match against Zambia on Thursday evening. The two sides are set to clash at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. This marks Kenya’s debut in the COSAFA Cup, a prestigious tournament that gathers top football teams from Southern Africa.
Kenya’s COSAFA Cup Debut
Despite not being a member of the COSAFA region, Kenya received an invitation to participate in the tournament following Malawi’s withdrawal. This opportunity allows Kenya to test themselves against some of the best teams from Southern Africa, providing valuable experience and exposure for the Emerging Stars.
Emerging Stars Representing Kenya
The Emerging Stars, Kenya’s U23 side, will represent the country in the 12-team competition. The COSAFA Cup consists of three groups, each with four teams. Kenya’s Emerging Stars are in Group B, where they will face Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Comoros.
Under the guidance of Harambee Stars assistant coach Ken Odhiambo, the Emerging Stars aim to make a strong impression in their first COSAFA Cup appearance.
Coach Ken Odhiambo’s Strategy
Speaking ahead of the tournament opener, Ken Odhiambo explained why they chose to send the Emerging Stars to participate in the COSAFA Cup.
“The qualifiers will start in September or thereabout. We felt it was good to test the U23 team and see if we can use them in the senior team. We know what our senior players can do, and this tournament will give the U23 players a chance to show whether they are ready for Harambee Stars,” said Odhiambo.
Strategic Risk for Future Gains
Odhiambo acknowledged the risk involved but believes it is a necessary step for future success. “This is a risk that we are taking, but it is worth it. Actually, this is what we have been waiting for because Rome was not built in a day. We move from the foundation to the roof,” added Odhiambo.
Emerging Stars’ Confidence
Emerging Stars captain Ronney Onyango expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete and succeed in the COSAFA Cup. He encouraged his teammates to aim for a strong start in South Africa.
“We came to compete, and we are ready to reach the climax of the tournament. We respect them (Zambia) but don’t fear them. We are ready to face them, compete, and get good results,” said the Gor Mahia ace.
COSAFA Cup Format
The COSAFA Cup features 12 teams divided into three groups. Only the group winners and the best second-placed side will advance to the semifinals. The group winners from Group B and Group C will face each other, while the top team from Group A will meet the best runner-up from the groups.
Deciding Group Standings
If teams finish with the same number of points in the group stage, several criteria will be used to determine the standings. Head-to-head results will be the first tiebreaker, followed by goal difference from matches between the tied teams, the number of goals scored in those matches, overall goal difference, and finally, a Fair Play points system. If necessary, lots will be drawn to determine the rankings.
Kenya’s Travelling Squad
Goalkeepers: Byrne Omondi, Ibrahim Wanzala, Dolph Junior
Defenders: Alphonce Omija, Paul Ochuoga, Sylvester Owino, Geoffrey Onyango, Amos Wanjala
Midfielders: Stanley Wilson, Elly Owande, Chrispine Erambo, Aldrine Kibet, Austine Odhiambo, Patrick Otieno, John Ochieng, Kaycie Odhiambo, William Gitamu, Ronney Onyango
Forwards: Benson Omalla, Jeremy Bissau, Alfred Tanui, Hassan Beja, Moses Shummah
Conclusion
Kenya’s participation in the 2024 COSAFA Cup provides a valuable opportunity for the Emerging Stars to showcase their talents against some of Southern Africa’s best teams. With coach Ken Odhiambo’s strategic guidance and a talented squad eager to prove themselves, Kenya is poised to make a strong showing in the tournament. The opening match against Zambia will set the stage for Kenya’s journey in the COSAFA Cup, as they aim to advance to the knockout stages and leave a lasting impression in this prestigious competition.
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