Kenya's provisional squad for AFCON U-20 CECAFA qualifiers unveiled

Kenyan U-20 winger Tyron Kariuki (L) in action during a past match against Rwanda. [FKF Media]

Kenyan U-20 national team head coach Salim Babu has unveiled the provisional squad that will represent Kenya in the upcoming AFCON U-20 CECAFA qualifiers, set to take place from October 6 to 20, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Kenya has been drawn into Group A, where they will face host nation Tanzania, alongside Rwanda, Sudan, and Djibouti.

The squad, which includes a mix of local and international-based players, will enter a residential training camp in Nairobi starting on September 22. The team is expected to depart for Tanzania on October 4, just days before the tournament kicks off.

Coach Babu, who will be assisted by Anthony Akhulia, is optimistic about the team’s chances of securing qualification for the continental tournament.

“We’ve assembled a balanced squad with a blend of youth and experience. Our objective is to qualify for AFCON, and the preparation in camp will help us fine-tune our strategy,” Babu said.

Kenya will be keen to make a mark in the CECAFA qualifiers, with the goal of booking a place in the AFCON U-20 tournament.

The squad features notable young talents from top Kenyan clubs, as well as promising prospects from international academies, giving fans plenty to look forward to.

The team’s preparation will be crucial as they head into a challenging group that includes Tanzania, known for their strong youth teams.

With the countdown to the tournament already underway, all eyes are now on Kenya’s camp as they gear up for the qualifiers.

The AFCON U-20 CECAFA qualifiers will offer an opportunity for the next generation of Kenyan footballers to shine on the regional stage, as they aim for success in Dar es Salaam.

Kenya’s Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers:
Ibrahim Wanzala (Kakamega Homeboyz), Sammy Saboke (AFC Leopards), Benard Maeri (Ruiru Hot Stars), Joshua Keya (Kibera Black Stars), Peter Juma (Nakuru Bucks)

Defenders:
Joseph Bate (MOFA), Amos Wanjala (Athletic Club Tollerano), Manzur Okwaro, Baron Ochieng (Sofapaka), Collins Ochieng (Kariobangi Sharks), Rodgers Wasega (Nairobi City Stars), Francis Gethoi (Naivas), Mohammed Aden Kaire (Mombasa United), Meguel Osotsi (Highway Secondary School), Charles Auma (Sofapaka), Jackson Imbiakha (Mombasa United)

Midfielders:
Stanley Wilson (A.I.K), Andres Odhiambo (Kariobangi Sharks), Elly Owande (Al Nasra), Kevin Wangaya (FC Tirana), Kelly Madada (AFC Leopards), Lucas Maina (Murang’a Seal), Benard Odhiambo (Nairobi United), Wiliam Gitamu (Bandari), Hamisi Otieno (Goseta High School), Irad Mushidi (Musingu High School), Houstin Oluoch (Musingu High School)

Forwards:
Tyron Kariuki, Aldrine Kibet (Nastic Soccer Academy), Louise Ingavi (Montverde Academy), Dalphene Omuri (Shabana), Mark Shaban (Gor Mahia), Austine Odongo (Shabana), Jeremy Bisau (Cheshunt FC), Abdalla Egesa (Bidco United), Javan Omondi (Ulinzi Stars), Syphas Otieno (MOFA), Isaac Oweri (Nairobi United/ Vasalund), Harrison Amalemba (Musingu High School), Linus Munyao (Riffa Sports Club), Hassan Beja (AFC Leopards), Nesta Olum (AFC Leopards), Adrian Oloo (Nairobi United), Dancan Odhiambo (Nairobi United), Humphrey Aroko (Kariobangi Sharks/ Highway Secondary School), Oliver Machaka (Kakamega Homeboyz), Lawrence Ouma (MOFA), Clinton Asiako (Bidco United), Henry Omollo (Fountain Gate), Izadin Mohammed (Bandari)]