Kevin Wangaya wins MOTM vs Nigeria/Harambee Stars on X
PLAYER RATINGS: Wangaya dazzles as Kenya bow out of U20 AFCON with proud draw
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Reading Time: 1min | Wed. 07.05.25. | 21:30
While they did not manage a win, the team’s determination to claim a point and their fighting spirit on the pitch earned well-deserved praise
Kenya’s Rising Stars exited the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations finals with heads held high after a spirited 2-2 draw against record champions Nigeria on Wednesday at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo.
After suffering back-to-back defeats to Morocco and Tunisia in their opening Group B matches, Kenya entered their final clash with nothing but redemption in mind.
While they did not manage a win, the team’s determination to claim a point and their fighting spirit on the pitch earned well-deserved praise.
Here at Mozzart Sport, we assess how Salim Babu's side — featuring three changes from their previous lineup — performed in this high-stakes Group B encounter.
Wycliford OduorGoalkeeper
The Bidco United goalkeeper endured a difficult outing, ultimately conceding twice.
He exhibited recurring issues with distribution and footwork, which disrupted the team's build-up play. His decision-making on saves was inconsistent, and he appeared uncomfortable when dealing with aerial deliveries. Overall, his performance was marred by lapses in game management, highlighting areas that require significant improvement.
Rating
4
Humphery Obino KegengoDefense
He struggled defensively, particularly on the blind side, frequently leaving the back two exposed.
His one-on-one defending was ineffective, and he contributed little going forward. His deliveries from wide areas lacked precision and power, failing to generate any meaningful attacking threat apart from the free kick
Rating
4
Manzur Okwaro SuleimanDefense
Among his peers, he stood out with high energy levels and consistent involvement in the final third.
His crosses were purposeful and posed a genuine threat in attacking areas. Defensively, he held his own in one-on-one situations, showing composure and sound positioning.
Rating
5
Jackson ImbiakhaDefense
It was a balanced performance from the former Mombasa Elite defender. While he appeared slightly shaky without the ball, he looked more composed during Kenya's periods of possession.
Despite his physical profile, he was unconvincing in aerial duels and showed hesitation in ground challenges—an area where more assertiveness is expected. On a positive note, he displayed solid defensive instincts, particularly in his timing and positioning for blocks.
Rating
6
Joseph Bate OnyangoDefense
A right-footed defender deployed on the left, the MOFA captain delivered a steady performance overall. He struggled with ball distribution early on but gradually grew into the game.
His attacking intent was evident through well-executed long balls aimed at the forwards. Defensively, he was dominant in aerial duels, demonstrating strong heading ability and maintaining good organization along the backline. While rarely tested in one-on-one situations, he handled the few instances competently.
Rating
5
Irad Mshindi AmbugoMidfield
It was a difficult outing for Irad, who struggled both on and off the ball.
Defensively, he was often late to duels, resulting in a poor ball-winning ratio—disappointing given that this is typically one of his strengths. In possession, he failed to initiate meaningful progressions and offered little in terms of attacking support or forward movement.
Rating
3
Kevin Injehu WangayaMidfield
As captain, Wangaya delivered a commendable all-round performance. He was effective in the build-up phase, consistently linking play and ensuring fluid transitions through midfield.
Defensively, he tracked back diligently to support the backline, demonstrating strong positional awareness. In the final third, he showed good timing with his forward runs and contributed meaningfully to the attack—ultimately capping his performance with a well-taken goal.
Rating
7
Aldrine Kipchirchir KibetAttack
Kibet showed ambition in possession, frequently taking risks and driving forward with the ball. As a strong ball carrier, he was central to Kenya’s attacking efforts and often looked to create openings.
However, his tendency to rely on individual play came at the expense of cohesion in the final third. Greater emphasis on teamwork and link-up play might have increased Kenya’s chances of securing an additional goal.
Rating
5
Dalphene EzekiahAttack
Omuri showed flashes of individual skill, registering several successful take-ons during his time on the pitch.
However, he was largely ineffective in possession, struggling to maintain composure and influence attacking sequences. Defensively, he made a stronger contribution—tracking back consistently and putting in the effort to support the backline.
Rating
4
Hassan Beja KitsaoMidfield
In possession, Beja showed composure and held his own despite appearing isolated for large parts of the match. He remained a persistent presence, keeping the Nigerian defenders alert with his movement.
Out of possession, he contributed defensively by helping maintain the team’s shape. However, he had limited involvement in goal-scoring opportunities and struggled to register meaningful attempts.
Rating
5
Lawrence Ouma OkothAttack
Okoth made a notable impact with his presence in the box, showing good hold-up play and awareness to link with wide players.
He played a key role in assisting the first goal, demonstrating sharp positioning and vision. However, his performance was marred by a costly moment as he conceded a penalty, which ultimately balanced out his overall contribution.
Rating
5
Andreas Odhiambo OmondiMidfield
Andreas offered stability in midfield, excelling in ball retention and providing a reliable outlet under pressure.
He supported the right-back effectively in defensive phases and contributed to the team's structure. Additionally, his progressive passes and positioning made him a useful option during build-up play, though his impact remained steady rather than standout.
Rating
5
Humphery Omondi ArokoMidfield
Aroko attempted to engage defenders in one-on-one situations but failed to produce any meaningful end product.
His decision-making was inconsistent, often choosing the wrong option in key moments, which limited his overall impact on the game.
Rating
3
William Gitamu MwangiMidfield
In his brief appearance, Gitama made the most of his time on the pitch. He actively engaged the opposing full-backs and showed attacking intent, capping off the tournament with a well-taken goal.
Rating
5
Mark ShabanAttack
Shaban had minimal impact on the ball and was largely uninvolved in key phases of play, offering little influence during his time on the field.
Rating
2
Kelly Okonji MadadaMidfield
Madada struggled to find his rhythm, adapting too late to influence the match meaningfully. He frequently lost possession under minimal pressure, limiting his effectiveness.
Rating
2
Elly Awino OwandeAttack
No appreance
Rating
-
