Kenya’s U17 national team is gearing up for a critical challenge in the 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) CECAFA Qualifiers. Drawn into Group B, Kenya will face defending champions Somalia, 2022 finalists South Sudan, and Sudan. The high-stakes matches are scheduled to take place between December 14 and 27 at Uganda’s Hamz Stadium in Nakivubo and St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Kenya’s Journey to AFCON U17 Glory Begins
Led by head coach Salim Babu, the Kenyan U17 team enters the qualifiers with an ambitious goal: to secure a spot in the tournament finals next year. The team will need to overcome tough opposition in Group B, particularly Somalia, who enter as reigning CECAFA champions. With the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals, the Kenyan squad is leaving no stone unturned in its preparation.
Coach Salim Babu will be supported by a robust technical team, including Antony Akhulia as assistant coach and Samwel Koko, who will oversee the goalkeepers. The team’s preparation includes stringent Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) testing, aimed at curbing age-cheating, ensuring a level playing field for all teams.
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Group B Showdown: Kenya vs. Somalia
The highlight of Group B is undoubtedly Kenya’s clash with Somalia. As defending champions, Somalia comes into the tournament with momentum and experience. However, Kenya boasts a young, talented squad eager to make an impact on the continental stage. Their match against Somalia will be pivotal in determining their chances of advancing.
South Sudan and Sudan, the other two teams in Group B, are also formidable opponents. South Sudan, the 2022 finalists, will be a tough test for the team’s defense and midfield, while Sudan’s tactical discipline poses a unique challenge.
Group A Dynamics
In Group A, hosts Uganda will compete alongside Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Burundi. Uganda, a perennial favorite in regional football, will enjoy home advantage and strong support from their fans. Tanzania and Ethiopia, with their rich football histories, will aim to upset the hosts, while Burundi seeks to establish itself as a rising power in the region.
Kenya’s Provisional Squad: A Glimpse into the Future
Coach Salim Babu has announced a provisional squad brimming with talent from across Kenya’s footballing ecosystem. The final squad will be confirmed by Monday, December 2, after rigorous training and evaluation.
Key Players to Watch:
- Goalkeepers: Theo Mwangi (Ongata Senior) and Dominic Munisa (Highway Secondary School) stand out for their reflexes and composure under pressure.
- Defenders: Cosmos Azunga and Ahmed Siraji are expected to anchor the backline with discipline and tactical awareness.
- Midfielders: Harman Ochieng and Alex Okoth Onyango bring creativity and control to the midfield, crucial for Kenya’s game plan.
- Forwards: Dante Echessah and Hassan Saleh Akhonga will lead the attack, aiming to breach even the strongest defenses.
This diverse squad includes players from domestic schools, academies, and international setups, reflecting the team’s commitment to developing grassroots talent.
Tournament Format and Key Details
The CECAFA U17 AFCON Qualifiers feature a round-robin format in the group stages. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, and the finalists will secure spots in the 2025 U17 AFCON tournament.
- Tournament Dates: December 14–27
- Venues: Hamz Stadium (Nakivubo) and St. Mary’s Stadium (Kitende)
- Key Objective: Qualify for the U17 AFCON Finals
Challenges and Preparations
The team faces significant challenges, particularly against Somalia, whose experience and tactical nous make them formidable opponents. However, Coach Babu is optimistic about his team’s chances. The squad has undergone intensive training, focusing on fitness, tactical discipline, and teamwork.
The use of MRI testing is a noteworthy addition to the tournament, aimed at promoting fairness by ensuring age compliance. This move aligns with CECAFA’s broader strategy to enhance the integrity of youth football.
Why Kenya’s Youth Team Matters
Their participation in the U17 AFCON Qualifiers represents more than just a footballing opportunity. It’s a chance to build the foundation for the future of Kenyan football. Developing young talent and exposing them to high-level competition is essential for nurturing players who can one day represent the senior national team on the global stage.
This tournament also provides a platform for young players to gain visibility and potentially attract opportunities in professional football, both locally and internationally.
Predictions and Expectations
The team’s group matches are expected to be fiercely competitive, with the clash against Somalia serving as the litmus test for their ambitions. While Kenya’s squad is young and relatively inexperienced compared to their rivals, the hunger and determination displayed by the players could give them an edge.
- Prediction vs Somalia: A narrow 1-1 draw, reflecting the balance of strength and ambition.
- Prediction vs South Sudan: A hard-fought 2-1 victory, leveraging Kenya’s attacking prowess.
- Prediction vs Sudan: A decisive 3-0 win, showcasing the team’s growth and cohesion.
If these results materialize, Kenya could comfortably advance to the semi-finals and be in contention for a spot in the finals.
