As the clock ticks down to the AFCON U20 CECAFA Qualifiers, Kenya’s Rising Stars are set to embark on a journey of high expectations and promise under the leadership of head coach Salim Babu. The final 20-man squad, led by Aldrine Kibet, has been announced ahead of the tournament set to take place in Dar es Salaam from October 6 to 20, 2024.
Coach Babu, speaking after unveiling the squad, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to rise to the challenge. The selection follows an intense training period, during which players were thoroughly assessed through a series of build-up matches. According to Babu, the squad is a well-balanced unit, blending experienced youth players with fresh talent to ensure a competitive edge at the regional qualifiers.
“Our preparations have been detailed and thorough,” Babu said. “The boys have shown great resilience and commitment, and I believe we have assembled a squad capable of making the nation proud. The qualifiers will be tough, but we are ready to give it our all.”
A notable feature of this squad is the steady progression of youth talent in Kenyan football. Eleven players in the final team were part of the 2023 CECAFA U18 Boys Championship, showcasing the country’s continued investment in nurturing young footballers. Among these are key figures such as Amos Wanjala, Tyron Kariuki, and captain Aldrine Kibet, whose leadership both on and off the pitch will be pivotal for Kenya’s ambitions in Tanzania.
Additionally, Hassan Beja and William Gitamu earned their places after impressive performances at the 2024 COSAFA tournament. Their experience will add a crucial layer of depth to the squad, particularly as the Rising Stars prepare to face fierce competition in Group A, which includes hosts Tanzania, Rwanda, Sudan, and Djibouti.
New faces also feature in this final lineup, with players like Kelly Madada, Lawrence Okoth, Jackson Imbiakha, Phabian Sheldon, and Rodgers Obusu making their debuts in national team colors. Their inclusion reflects a desire to inject new energy and talent into the squad, giving the Rising Stars a dynamic approach as they head into the qualifiers.
The team’s journey to Dar es Salaam is scheduled for Friday, October 5, just a day before the tournament kicks off. With Group A being one of the more competitive pools, Kenya will need to be at their very best to secure qualification for the 2025 AFCON U20 tournament.
The goalkeepers for the squad include the experienced Ibrahim Wanzala, who has been a stalwart in previous youth competitions, and Joshua Keya. In defense, the Rising Stars will rely on Baron Ochieng, Manzur Suleiman, Jackson Imbiakha, Joseph Bate, Amos Wanjala, and debutant Rodgers Obusu to provide stability and resilience at the back.
The midfield boasts a blend of creativity and control, with standout players like Tyron Kariuki, Kelly Madada, and Stanley Wilson expected to pull the strings. William Gitamu and Phabian Sheldon, both of whom have shown promise in recent competitions, will be crucial in both defensive and attacking transitions.
In attack, Aldrine Kibet leads the charge alongside fellow forwards Louise Ingavi, Andres Odhiambo, Kevin Wanganya, and Hassan Beja. Their ability to break down opposing defenses will be key as Kenya aims to advance beyond the group stage and secure a place at the continental showpiece.
As Kenya prepares to face familiar regional rivals, the spotlight will be on how this youthful squad can navigate the pressures of international competition. For Coach Babu and his team, the task is clear: fight for a place at the 2025 AFCON U20 tournament and continue the legacy of Kenya’s youth football progression.
Kenya’s Final Squad for the AFCON U20 CECAFA Qualifiers:
Goalkeepers:
Ibrahim Wanzala, Joshua Keya
Defenders:
Baron Ochieng, Manzur Suleiman, Jackson Imbiakha, Joseph Bate, Amos Wanjala, Rodgers Obusu
Midfielders:
Stanley Wilson, Tyron Kariuki, Kelly Madada, William Gitamu, Phabian Sheldon
Forwards:
Louise Ingavi, Andres Odhiambo, Aldrine Kibet, Kevin Wanganya, Hassan Beja, Dalphene Ezekiah, Lawrence Okoth
