By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Kenya’s under-18 national team, Junior Stars, intensified their training ahead of the CECAFA U-18 Boys Championship set to commence on November 25th to December 9th, 2023 in Kisumu and Kakamega towns.
Kenya has been placed in Group A alongside Somalia, Rwanda, Sudan, and Djibouti, while Group B consists of Tanzania, Zanzibar, South Sudan, and Uganda.
All group ‘A’ matches will be played in Kisumu while group ‘B’ matches will be Kakamega-based.
The winners of each group will face off against the runners-up in the next round which will be the semi-finals that will take place on December 5th in Kisumu.
Kenya will kick off their campaign against Sudan on opening day at 3 pm in Kisumu. Kenya has been camping at Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani, and will travel to Kisumu on Thursday.
Head coach Salim Babu said they currently have 25 players in the team and will drop three before the team leaves for Kisumu.
“Our target is to lift the trophy. Being hosts gives us an advantage over rivals. We have had little time in camp which we have utilized to ensure the team gels,” said Babu.
The team has been boosted by the arrival of ldrine Kibet, Alvin Kasavuli and Amos Wanjala from Nastic Soccer Academy in Spain and Luis Ingavi from Monteverde Academy in Orlando, Florida.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba appealed to Kisumu residents to turn up and cheer Rising Stars.
“Come cheer our U18 national football team, an exciting blend of top talents from our schools and academies. We are giving all gifted youngsters a chance, as we piece together the most competitive team possible,” said the CS.
Group A
1. Kenya
2. Somalia
3. Rwanda
4. Sudan
Group B
1. Tanzania
2. Zanzibar
3. South Sudan
4. Uganda
