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WOL
Rising Stars assistant coach has explained why his charges have what it takes to achieve their targets at the upcoming set to take place in Egypt later this month.
Akhulia is currently taking charge of the boys, who are based at the Thika Foundation Academy, with some of the players that made the provisional squad of 35 being taken through their paces.
Akhulia has explained the importance of the upcoming tournament not just to the players, but the country at large.
“Going to a big tournament is always an opportunity for players to showcase their talent and market themselves to clubs outside the country,” Akhulia said.
Timothy Ouma made a big-money move to Czech giants Slavia Prague in January, hoping to take his career to the next level, but his first two months have been worrying.
“We are looking forward to having a great team and a great tournament. We are not just going there to participate; we are going to compete. This is our maiden tournament—we’ve never been in it before—but we believe the players are ready and raring to win for Kenya.”
Akhulia pointed out the advantage his players have ahead of the tournament, especially considering most of them have played together for a long time
“ It’s beneficial for the country, for the players, and for the national team. If you look at this squad, it’s been developing since the 2023 CECAFA tournament. It’s still largely the same team, with only a few adjustments and new inclusions here and there.
Johnathan McKinstry has unleashed a scathing criticism of local Kenyan players in regards to securing moves abroad compared to their West African counterparts.
“The team is progressing well, and I believe many of these players will be in the squad for CHAN and, if not this CHAN, then maybe the 2027 AFCON.”
Kenya, who have been placedknow they have their work cut to reach the quarter finals — and the ultimate semi-final target which will see them qualify for the U-20 World Cup in Chile.
Akhulia has outlined the strategy he will adopt to make sure his team suppasses their expectations.
“To qualify for the next stage, we need to win at least two games. Our first two matches are against Sierra Leone and Zambia, so our priority is to win against Sierra Leone first and then find a way to beat Zambia.
The former Tusker defender, who joined Nyasa Big Bullets in 2023, has been appointed the new club captain for the 2025 season.
“ If we win those two, the Senegal match will take care of itself. That’s our focus—winning those first two games.
“The current Zambia and Sierra Leone squads are youthful teams, and we believe the players we have can match their energy. Now, it’s up to us as coaches to ensure we get things right and that the players are well-equipped with the knowledge of the game.”
Kenya are set to fly out to Morocco to take part in a pre-tournament camp before the start of the tournament later this month, where they will face Sierra Leone in their first match on May 1.
