Kenya’s U-20 football team defeated Tanzania 2-1 in their opening match of the Cecafa Under-20 Afcon qualifiers. Kevin Wanganya and Andres Odhiambo scored for Kenya, with Tanzania pulling one back through Valentino Kusengama. The victory positions Kenya atop Group ‘A’ as they prepare to face Rwanda next.
In a remarkable display of talent and determination, Kenya’s U-20 football team, affectionately known as the “Rising Stars,” commenced their Cecafa Under-20 Afcon regional qualifiers on a high note with a 2-1 victory over the hosts, Tanzania. The match took place at the Kinondoni Municipal Council (KMC) Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Sunday. Kevin Wanganya opened the scoring for Kenya with a stunning free-kick in the 23rd minute, arcing the ball over the Tanzanian wall and into the top left corner of the net, leaving goalkeeper Anthony Mpemba unable to respond. Just moments later, Tanzania nearly equalized, but Kenyan goalkeeper Ibrahim Wanzala made a crucial save to deny Sheikhan Khamis. Kelly Madada wasted an excellent opportunity to extend Kenya’s lead and his close-range effort sailed over the crossbar. Upon resuming the second half, Kenya intensified their attacking efforts, creating several chances to increase their advantage. In the 65th minute, Andres Odhiambo celebrated exuberantly after netting Kenya’s second goal, deftly finishing a cross from Hassan Beja. Though Tanzania reduced the deficit with a late goal from Valentino Kusengama, whose free-kick caught Wanzala off guard, the Rising Stars secured the win and positioned themselves atop Group “A.” Kenya’s success was a collective effort, emphasizing their determination to qualify for the upcoming Afcon U-20 tournament. They now prepare to face Rwanda on Thursday as the competition continues.
The Cecafa Under-20 Afcon regional qualifiers are critical for teams vying for a spot in the 2025 Afcon U-20 tournament. The tournament features various teams from across different zones, including Group “A” where Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Sudan, and Djibouti compete. The two finalists from these qualifiers will earn the opportunity to participate in the continental showcase, making each match crucial for securing a position. Kenya’s performance against Tanzania has set a positive tone for their campaign, showcasing their potential on an international stage.
Kenya’s U-20 team demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience in their 2-1 victory against Tanzania in the Cecafa Under-20 Afcon qualifiers. With goals from Kevin Wanganya and Andres Odhiambo, they secured a vital win that places them in a promising position in the early stages of the tournament. As they look ahead to their next match against Rwanda, the Rising Stars aim to build on this momentum to ensure qualification for the upcoming Afcon U-20 championship.
Original Source: nation.africa
