In their opening match of the Cecafa Under-20 Afcon qualifiers, Kenya triumphed over Tanzania with a score of 2-1. Kevin Wanganya scored first with a remarkable free-kick, followed by Andres Odhiambo’s goal to secure the win. Despite a late consolation goal from Tanzania, Kenya leads Group ‘A’ and prepares to face Rwanda next.
In a thrilling opener of the Cecafa Under-20 Afcon regional qualifiers, the Kenyan football team, dubbed the “Rising Stars,” secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Tanzania at the Kinondoni Municipal Council (KMC) Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Sunday. Kevin Wanganya initiated the scoring in the 23rd minute with a stunning free-kick that curbed over a four-man wall, landing squarely in the top left corner of the net. Despite Tanzania’s attempts to recover soon after, with a close chance narrowly thwarted by Kenyan goalkeeper Ibrahim Wanzala, the hosts were unable to capitalize. In the second half, Kenya further extended their lead through Andres Odhiambo, who deftly volleyed a cross from Hassan Beja into the goal in the 65th minute, celebrating jubilantly as the crowd roared. Though Tanzania managed to score in the latter part of the game from a free-kick taken by Valentino Kusengama, they could not equalize before the final whistle. This win places Kenya at the top of Group “A,” setting them on a promising path in the competition that could lead them to the 2025 Afcon U-20. In addition to Kenya and Tanzania, Group “A” features Rwanda, Sudan, and Djibouti. The reigning champions, Uganda, will contend in Group “B” alongside South Sudan, Burundi, and Ethiopia, with the final two teams earning a spot in the upcoming continental display set to be decided during the CAF General Assembly in Addis Ababa. Kenya will now prepare to face Rwanda on Thursday as they continue their pursuit of success in the tournament.
The Cecafa Under-20 Afcon regional qualifiers serve as a critical tournament for emerging football nations in East Africa, providing an opportunity for young talent to showcase their skills at an international level. This qualifying series is particularly important as it determines which teams will advance to the 2025 Afcon U-20 tournament. With Kenya ranked among promising teams, their participation in this competition reflects a growing investment in youth football within the country. The involvement of various East African nations, including defending champions Uganda, highlights the region’s competitive spirit and potential for football development.
The successful debut of Kenya’s U-20 team in the Cecafa qualifiers indicates a bright future for the nation in international football competitions. Their ability to secure a victory against Tanzania, a fellow regional contender, places them in an advantageous position as they move forward in the tournament. With their next match against Rwanda on the horizon, the Kenyan team aims to continue their impressive performance and pursue a place in the prestigious 2025 Afcon U-20 Championship.
Original Source: nation.africa
