Rising Stars' winger confident of AFCON U20 success, eyes World Cup spot

Rising Stars winger Elly Owande has expressed confidence in the team's ability to excel in the group stages of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON U20) and push for a spot in the finals of the prestigious youth tournament.

Kenya's U20 team will make history by competing in the tournament for the first time since its inception in 1979. The age-grade competition is set to take place from Saturday, April 26, to Sunday, May 18, 2025, in Ivory Coast.

Kenya has been drawn into Group C alongside defending champions Senegal, 2017 winners Zambia, and fellow tournament debutants Sierra Leone

As part of their preparations, Rising Stars recently launched a three-day scouting mini-camp to identify top talent, primarily from Nairobi and its surroundings.

The technical bench aims to strengthen the squad ahead of the continental showdown.

The tournament features 13 nations, with the top four teams earning qualification for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.

Kenya secured its place in AFCON after finishing second in the CECAFA qualifiers held in October last year in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Owande, who plays for Al Nasr’s U23 side in the UAE Pro League, has joined team captain Amos Wanjala in rallying support for the squad.

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He remains optimistic about Kenya's chances despite being a tournament debutant.

“We are in a tough group, but that’s not a problem. We have some of the best players on the continent, and I believe we are at the same level as our opponents. Being our first time, we know we are considered underdogs, but we have to prove that our qualification was not a fluke,” Owande told Mozzart Sport.

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The winger emphasized that the team’s ultimate goal is to secure a World Cup berth, which would open international opportunities for young players.

“This is a great opportunity for the country and for the players taking part. If we can qualify for the World Cup, it will be a huge milestone. It will allow us to showcase our talents on a global stage and possibly secure chances abroad,” he added.

Owande concluded by stressing the importance of self-belief and determination in the team's journey.

“Yes, nothing can stop us. We have confidence in ourselves,” he affirmed.