){kind=small}
Premier){kind=logo}
CHE
){kind=logo}
TOT
){kind=small}
Bundesl){kind=logo}
FCA
){kind=small}
FCB
){kind=small}
Ligue 1){kind=small}
NICE
){kind=small}
FCN
){kind=small}
Serie A){kind=logo}
GEN
){kind=small}
UDI
){kind=small}
LaLiga){kind=small}
RAY
){kind=logo}
ESP
){kind=small}
Premier){kind=small}
MAU
){kind=small}
POR
){kind=logo}
EVE
){kind=small}
ARS
){kind=small}
GIR
){kind=logo}
ALA
){kind=small}
KAS
){kind=small}
FCT
){kind=small}
MUR
){kind=small}
BID
){kind=small}
SHA
){kind=small}
BAN
){kind=small}
MON
){kind=small}
COMO
){kind=small}
NAC
){kind=small}
POL
){kind=logo}
HDH
){kind=logo}
B04
){kind=small}
RBL
){kind=logo}
TSG
){kind=logo}
SCF
){kind=small}
BVB
){kind=logo}
BOC
){kind=logo}
VFB
){kind=logo}
M05
){kind=logo}
HSK
){kind=small}
WHU
){kind=small}
BOU
){kind=logo}
IPS
){kind=logo}
WOL
assistant coach has pinpointed two crucial areas his side must improve on if they are to stand a realistic chance of securing qualification for the
The Kenyan U-20 national team, currently in the final stages of preparation for the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), produced a dominant display in their latest friendly, thrashing FKF Premier League side Ulinzi Stars 4-0 at the Kasarani Annex on Wednesday afternoon.
However, despite the convincing result, Akhulia insists that significant adjustments are needed before they head to the continental showpiece.
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.
With the Rising Stars alongside defending champions Senegal, 2017 winners Zambia, and fellow debutants Sierra Leone, the team faces a stern test in their bid to advance beyond the group stage.
Akhulia believes improving their attacking efficiency and defensive solidity will be key to their success in Egypt.
«Our scoring—we’ve (previously) played two friendlies. Against Bidco, we didn’t score a goal. Against City Stars, we managed two goals, but we also conceded two. We really need to score more goals,» Akhulia stated.
«The team is playing very good football, but playing without scoring doesn’t add up. So we think we really need to work on our scoring.»
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latestfrom Pulse Sports.
While the attacking department requires fine-tuning, Akhulia also explained the need for a more resolute defense as the side awaits for Amos Wanjala’s arrival.
AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda has shared how the club managed to fill up Nyayo Stadium for the Mashemeji Derby that ended goalless against Gor Mahia.
«Our defending also isn’t where it should be because, looking at the friendlies we’ve played, we still conceded two goals.
“The overall performance of the team needs improvement in all areas—we need to defend well, we need to attack well. As we continue preparing, we really need to work on all team functions while ensuring that the squad maintains good football.»
Despite the concerns, Akhulia remains optimistic about the squad’s balance and experience.
«The squad is well-balanced. We have players who have played top-flight football, like Kelly (Madada) , Baron (Ochieng) , and Manzur (Okwaro) —very experienced players.
“ They have been with the team since the U-18 squad, so I think we’ve grown well as a team. We also have young players coming in, like Javan, who hasn’t been in the team before. We are gelling well.»
He further highlighted the importance of reinforcements from abroad, including Stanley, who has previously been part of the squad, and a new addition, Zakiro, who is expected to join the camp within the week.
Taiwo Atieno has urged Tottenham Hotspur full-back Djed Spence to visit Kenya and meet Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy before deciding on his international future.
Beyond the U-20 AFCON, Akhulia views the tournament as a stepping stone for the players’ growth and exposure.
«Going to a big tournament is always an opportunity for players to showcase their talent and market themselves to clubs outside the country. It’s beneficial for the country, for the players, and for the national team.»
Reflecting on the squad’s evolution since the 2023 CECAFA tournament, Akhulia noted, «It’s still largely the same team, with only a few adjustments and new inclusions here and there.
“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.»
With the Rising Stars making their maiden appearance at the U-20 AFCON, Akhulia made it clear that the team is not in Egypt just to participate.
«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. We believe the players are ready and raring to win for Kenya.»
The 13-team tournament, which will determine Africa’s four representatives at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, will be taking part in Egypt after Ivory Coast withdrew their hosting rights.
The four semifinalists from the competition will secure a place at the global event, set to take place from September 27 to October 19.
With the Rising Stars eager to prove themselves on the continental stage, attention now shifts to CAF’s next move in securing a new venue for the prestigious youth tournament.
