CECAFA U23: Kenya face Burundi for a place in mouthwatering semifinal

Burundi stand between Emerging Stars and a place in the final of the ongoing CECAFA Under 23 as the two sides lock horns in the semi-finals on Tuesday 27th July.

Stanley Okumbi’s charges will head into the clash brimming with confidence as they possess a 100% record in the group stages after beating South Sudan and Djibouti.

Emerging Stars success in the tournament has been built on a lethal attack and sturdy defence that has seen them yet to concede and score five goals thus far.

The impeccable record has left Okumbi delighted but admitted that they are still facets of some games that they need to tighten some screws. 

“Five goals and two wins makes us happy as the technical bench. But we need to tune out our minds and prepare well ahead of the tough match against Burundi. Although we have won all our two games in the group stage, I believe we still have to improve on some aspects,”

“We have had enough time to rest and also prepare for the semi-final. I have watched Burundi play and they are not an easy side,” said Okumbi.

Burundi have not have an easy route to the semi-finals as they started with a bang, thumping Eritrea 3-0 but had to work hard as they came from behind to earn a draw against Eritrea and book a slot in the semis.

Burundi head coach, Jimmy Ndayizeye is hoping for maximum concentration and is banking on players who pack European experience under their belt to come of age.

“I am impressed with the concentration of my players and we hope they can keep focused for the game against Kenya. We have brought some of our young players from Europe to be tested in this tournament and am happy with the progress. 

“Facing Kenya will not be easy because they have shown they are strong by winning their two games in the pool,” said Ndayizeye.