‘s U-17 national football team is poised for an intense showdown at the U-17 (AFCON) qualifiers in Kampala, Uganda
The team, coached by Salim Babu, is determined to make its mark in the competition as they aim for a spot in the 2025 continental championship
Kenya names a strong U-17 provisional squad for AFCON CECAFA qualifiers, blending local talent and overseas-based players.
The side will open their campaign against arch-rivals Tanzania on Wednesday at the Nakivubo Hamz Stadium
Following the withdrawal of Ethiopia and Burundi, the tournament format was revised, placing Kenya in Group A alongside East African neighbors Tanzania and hosts Uganda
The stakes are high, with the top two teams from the group earning a ticket to the U-17 AFCON
In preparation, Coach Babu has assembled a well-balanced squad featuring a mix of defensive solidity, midfield control, and attacking flair.
Kenya enters the match with a potential edge after and Uganda played to a 1-1 draw in the group opener on Sunday.
A victory for the Babu and his charges against Tanzania would put them in prime position to top the group and secure qualification.
The other group, Group B, features Somalia, South Sudan, and Sudan, making this a tightly contested tournament.
Harambee Stars are without a coach following the resignation of Engin Firat but who are the names likely to take over from the Turkish tactician?
South Sudan thrashed Somalia 3-0 in the other match day 1 fixture in Group B showdown and will take on Sudan on the same day.
The qualifiers, which run until December 27, promise to showcase the region’s best young talent as Kenya hopes to rise to the occasion and secure a spot in the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.
Kenya’s Final Squad
Golan Oliech, Theodore Mwangi, Nevile Peter Simiyu, Wilson Nyangweso, Raphael Omondi, Cosmas Arunga, Fidel Castro, Fidel Odhiambo, William Marcos, Ramadhan Mwakoi, Devin Charles, Kyle Ian Okoth, Edison Bwire, Ferouz Oyondi, Armstrong Omondi, Enock Mwagandi, Harman Ochieng, Yuri Martin, Lukonde Mwale, Jerome Hera.