Rising Stars head coach Salim Babu has named his final 26-man squad for the upcoming U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to run from April 27 to May 18, 2025, in Egypt. Rising Stars secured their spot through the CECAFA qualifiers and are now gearing up to compete among Africa’s elite youth sides.

Kenya has been drawn into a competitive Group B alongside Morocco, Tunisia, and Nigeria. Reacting to the draw, Coach Babu remained positive about his team’s prospects despite the challenge ahead.

“We acknowledge that we’re in a highly competitive group, but we also understand that to become champions, you must be ready to face the best,” said Coach Babu. “Our focus is on thorough preparation to give ourselves the best chance of achieving positive results and progressing deep into the tournament.”

The tournament will feature 13 nations battling for continental supremacy. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will progress to the quarter-finals. The tournament will conclude on May 18, 2025.

Coach Babu also expressed confidence in the squad’s quality and mindset heading into the showpiece event.

“This is a well-rounded and strong squad. I believe the boys have what it takes to compete at the highest level and provide great competition at the U20 AFCON. We are not going just to participate, we are going to compete and make our mark.”

Rising Stars will kick off their campaign against Morocco, before facing Tunisia and wrapping up the group stage with a clash against Nigeria.

Beyond the continental crown, the stakes are even higher, the four semi-finalists will earn the right to represent Africa at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, a goal the Rising Stars will be hoping to achieve.

The team is set to travel to Egypt on Monday, April 21, 2025.

Group B Fixtures

May 1: Kenya vs Morocco

May 4: Tunisia vs Kenya

May 7: Nigeria vs Kenya

Final Squad

Goalkeepers

Kevin Oduor, Wycliford Oduor, Benard Jairo

Defenders

Baron Ochieng, Humphrey Obino, Jackson Imbiakha, Joseph Bate, Manzur Okwaro, Amos Wanjala, Telena Ochieng, Collins Ochieng

Midfielders

Kevin Wangaya, Emilio Brian, Irad Mshindi, Humphrey Aroko, Aldrine Kibet, Kelly Madada, Hassan Beja, Ezekiel Omuri, Elly Owande, William Gitama, Javan Omondi, Andreas Odhiambo

Forwards

Lawrence Ouma, Oliver Machaka, Mark Shaban

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