Kenya’s U-20 football team, the Rising Stars, began their Cecafa qualifiers with a 2-1 win against Tanzania at KMC Stadium. Kevin Wanganya and Andres Odhiambo scored for Kenya, while Valentino Kusengama netted a late goal for Tanzania. This victory positions Kenya at the top of Group “A”, ahead of their next match against Rwanda.
In an impressive opening to their campaign in the Cecafa Under-20 Afcon regional qualifiers, Kenya’s national team, known as the “Rising Stars,” secured a 2-1 victory against Tanzania at the Kinondoni Municipal Council (KMC) Stadium in Dar es Salaam. The match commenced with midfielder Kevin Wanganya scoring a spectacular free-kick in the 23rd minute, curving the ball over the Tanzanian defensive wall and into the top left corner of the net, leaving goalkeeper Anthony Mpemba unable to save it. Following a spirited showing, Kenya maintained pressure, with numerous opportunities to extend their lead. Midfielder Andres Odhiambo heightened the excitement by scoring in the 65th minute after receiving a well-placed cross from Hassan Beja and successfully slotting it into the center of the goal. Tanzania’s Valentino Kusengama reduced the deficit later in the half with a goal, yet the effort was insufficient to change the outcome of the match, concluding with Kenya triumphant at 2-1. With these results, Kenya takes a lead in Group “A” ahead of their next match against Rwanda on Thursday, while the competition also features teams like Sudan and Djibouti. The ultimate goal of the tournament is to qualify for the 2025 Afcon U-20 championship, with the host decided during the upcoming CAF General Assembly in Addis Ababa. The dynamic performance from the Rising Stars elucidates their potential and ambition in the tournament, showcasing both teamwork and individual talent on the pitch.
The Cecafa Under-20 Afcon regional qualifiers serve as a preliminary competition for African nations seeking to qualify for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. Teams from various regions compete in these qualifiers, which also establish a ranking and grouping system for the final tournament. Kenya, after successfully defeating Tanzania, finds itself at the forefront of Group “A,” a promising position as they work towards qualifying for the larger continental event. The importance of such qualifiers cannot be overstated, as they provide young players with exposure and experience on a significant platform, whilst fostering competition amongst African nations.
In conclusion, the Rising Stars of Kenya began their Cecafa U-20 Afcon qualifiers on a strong note with a commendable 2-1 victory over Tanzania. The match highlighted the skill and determination of the Kenyan squad, specifically notable performances by Kevin Wanganya and Andres Odhiambo. As they prepare for their next challenge against Rwanda, Kenya positions itself favorably in the tournament, aiming for a spot at the 2025 Afcon U-20 championship. Such performances are crucial for the development of football in the region and for the growth of young athletes’ prospects on the continental stage.
Original Source: nation.africa
