The Kenya U20 national football team, the Rising Stars, are officially on the road to the 2025 TotalEnergies U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt. Things are starting to get exciting.
After weeks of rigorous training in Nairobi, head coach Salim Babu has named his final squad for the tournament, which kicks off on April 27. The boys are set to depart for Morocco this Wednesday, where they’ll hold a 10-day intensive training camp before making their way to Egypt.
This year’s AFCON marks a big milestone for Kenya, as it’s the first time the team is participating under the new tournament format. The Rising Stars punched their ticket to AFCON after a solid performance at the 2024 CECAFA U20 Qualifiers, finishing second behind Tanzania in a hard-fought 2-1 final. Despite the loss, both teams advanced to the continental competition.
Kenya U20 Group Stage Challenge Ahead
Kenya has been drawn into Group C, alongside Morocco, strong contenders Nigeria, and Tunisia. The Rising Stars begin their group stage campaign on May 1 against Morocco, followed by Tunisia on May 4, and a final showdown against Nigeria on May 7.
Coach Babu knows the stakes are high a spot in the U20 World Cup awaits the top four teams. “Our target is to reach the semifinals and book a place at the World Cup,” he said. “We believe in the talent we have, and we’re fully committed to making it happen.”
Final Squad Highlights
From an initial 35-man provisional squad, the technical team has settled on a balanced final list, favoring players who proved themselves during the qualifiers. Interestingly, foreign-born players who took part in early training sessions have been left out of the final selection, making way for homegrown talent and a few overseas-based stars who came through local pathways.
Here’s a breakdown of the final squad:
Goalkeepers
- Bernard Jairo (Kariobangi Sharks)
- Wyclifford Oduor (Bidco United)
- Kevin Oduor (Nairobi United)
Defenders
- Amos Wanjala (Athletic Club Torrellano, Spain) – Captain
- Joseph Bate (MOFA FC)
- Baron Ochieng (Sofapaka)
- Henry Obina (Murang’a Seal)
- Collins Ochieng (based in Denmark)
- Telena Ochieng (Ulinzi Stars)
- Jackson Imbiakha (formerly Mombasa Elite)
- Manzur Okwaro (KCB FC)
Midfielders
- Kevin Wangaya (unattached)
- Emilio Brian (Ulinzi Stars)
- Irad Mshindi (former Musingu Scorpions captain)
- Mark Shaban (Gor Mahia)
- Humphrey Aroko (Kariobangi Sharks)
- Kelly Madada (AFC Leopards)
- Aldrine Kibet (Spain)
Forwards
- Hassan Beja (AFC Leopards)
- Ezekiel Omuri (Shabana FC)
- Elly Owande (Al Nasr – UAE)
- William Gitama (Bandari FC)
- Javan Omondi (Ulinzi Stars)
- Lawrence Ouma (MOFA FC)
- Oliver Machaka (Kakamega Homeboyz)
Notable Absences
Some familiar faces missed the final cut, including Andreas Odhiambo, who is currently on trial in Norway, and Stanley Omondi of AIK (Sweden). While their absence will be felt, Babu remains confident that the selected team has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Kenya U20 Looking Ahead
With a solid mix of youthful energy, homegrown grit, and international exposure, the Rising Stars are ready to take on Africa’s best. The upcoming training camp in Morocco will be crucial in sharpening the team’s form before their big moment in Egypt.
Kenya fans have every reason to dream could this be the team that finally takes us to the U20 World Cup stage? Only time will tell, but for now, we’re backing the boys all the way.
Follow us for more updates, match previews, and exclusive coverage as the Rising Stars begin their journey at AFCON 2025!
