The Kenya U20 football team, affectionately known as the Rising Stars, is in the throes of intense preparation as they gear up for their maiden appearance at the Africa U20 Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled in Egypt. Under the guidance of head coach Salim Babu, the team faces a critical yet exciting period as they navigate the complexities of squad selection and tactical refinement.
Testing the waters with friendlies
As part of their preparatory journey, the Rising Stars have engaged in a series of friendly matches to assess their readiness for the tournament. Recently, they played against the Kariobangi Sharks at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, where they registered a 1-1 draw, showcasing both potential and areas for improvement. Hassan Beja opened the scoring for the Rising Stars, but a penalty from Ghai Panchol later equalized the match.
Another match against the FKF Premier League side, Ulinzi Stars, showcased the Kenyan squad’s prowess, as they clinched a resounding 4-0 victory. This performance highlighted the team’s capability to dominate play, providing a much-needed morale boost ahead of their looming international fixtures.
Balancing selection headaches and emerging talent
Head coach Salim Babu has spoken candidly about the challenges of finalizing the squad, a task made difficult by the impressive performances across the board. “It will be hard to select the final team. However, they (the players) will determine who will make the cut,” Babu remarked, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming friendlies in honing the final lineup.
An exciting addition to the squad has been Reuben Grewal, an English-born midfielder who made his debut appearance for the team in the draw against Kariobangi Sharks. Despite his limited time on the pitch, Grewal impressed with his positioning and ball control, showcasing his potential value to the team. This inclusion highlights the strategic infusion of new talent as part of Kenya’s broader strategy.
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The road ahead: Tactical goals and group challenges
Placed in Group C alongside defending champions Senegal, Zambia, and Sierra Leone, the Rising Stars face formidable opposition. Babu has outlined a strategic goal of clinching victories in their initial matches against Sierra Leone and Zambia to secure a strong position for progressing to the quarterfinals. “We are in a group that gives us a real chance to progress if we approach our matches strategically. It’s neither an easy group nor an impossible one,” he stated.
Despite the complex group dynamics, coach Salim Babu remains optimistic, noting the team’s ability to “score goals and defend well” as a measure of their preparedness for the tournament. The team’s tactical aspirations are further endorsed by assistant coach Anthony Akhulia, who recognizes the need for improved attacking efficiency and solid defense as vital components to their success.
Finding the balance: Experience meets youth
Beyond tactical preparations, the Rising Stars’ squad benefits from a mix of experienced players and emerging talent. Manzur Okwaro, a promising defender, is among those eagerly eyeing the AFCON stage as a launchpad to professional opportunities. Coach Salim Babu and his team have worked diligently to foster camaraderie and cohesion within the squad, leveraging experiences from past tournaments to forge a competitive team spirit.
As the tournament draws near, the Rising Stars will continue sharpening their skills, taking on local sides such as the Kenya Police youth team, to ensure they are well-prepared to face their AFCON opponents. With the blend of strategic vision, talented youth, and a fiercely competitive spirit, the Kenya U20 team is determined to make their mark on the continental stage and inspire pride amongst their home supporters.
