AFCONU20Q: Rising Stars eye back-to-back wins as they take on Rwanda

The Kenya U20 team will aim to maintain its perfect record when it hosts Rwanda in an AFCON U20 CECAFA qualification match at the Major General Isamuhyo Stadium on Thursday. Kick-off is scheduled for 4 PM.

The Rising Stars began their qualification campaign on a high note, defeating hosts Tanzania 2-1 in their opening Group A fixture on Sunday. Goals from former FKF Centre of Excellence duo Kevin Wangaya and Andreas Odhiambo secured the victory for Salim Babu’s side, and they will be looking to collect another three points against Rwanda.

Conversely, Rwanda faced Sudan in their opening match on Tuesday but suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat. They will be eager to bounce back against Kenya, with both teams eyeing qualification for the final, which would also guarantee a spot at next year’s AFCON, set to be hosted in a yet-to-be-determined nation. Kenya, having had more rest since their first game, could have an advantage when they take the field.

Reflecting on the win over Tanzania, coach Salim Babu expressed gratitude for the result but admitted that the second half was challenging, as Tanzania switched to long balls in an attempt to break Kenya’s control of the game.

“I thank God that we started well in the first half and got the goal we were aiming for. The plan was to score early to ease the pressure,” Babu said.

“The difference in the second half was the long balls. They played more direct, which made it harder for us to manage. In the first half, they were passing the ball, which suited us better,” he added.

Kenya, led by captain Amos Wanjala, looked solid in defence and midfield against Tanzania, but they will need to be more clinical in attack. Missed chances in the first half could have put the game out of reach earlier, and coach Babu will hope for more efficiency in front of the goal against Rwanda.

The match will be streamed live on CECAFA's YouTube channel.

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Kenya Squad in Tanzania

Goalkeepers: Ibrahim Wanzala, Joshua Keya

Defenders: Baron Ochieng, Manzur Suleiman, Jackson Imbiakha, Joseph Bate, Amos Wanjala, Rodgers Obusu

Midfielders: Tyron Kariuki, Kelly Madada, William Gitamu, Phabian Sheldon

Forwards: Louise Ingavi, Andres Odhiambo, Aldrine Kibet, Kevin Wanganya, Hassan Beja, Dalphene Ezekiah, Lawrence Okoth

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