Kenya’s U20 national team, the Rising Stars, are set to kick off their Africa U20 Cup of Nations (AFCON U20) campaign on Thursday, May 1, against North African giants Morocco at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo.
Defender Vincent Wanjala, who plies his trade with Spanish third-tier outfit Athletic Club Torrellano, is brimming with confidence ahead of the continental challenge. Speaking to Flashscore, Wanjala expressed belief in the squad’s maturity and readiness to face Africa’s elite.
“We are fully prepared to take on any opponent in this tournament. Whoever comes our way, we’ll deal with them accordingly. We’re not just here to participate we came to win,” he stated.
Kenya’s Rising Stars are in a tough group and will face Tunisia on May 4, before wrapping up their group-stage fixtures against tournament heavyweights and record champions Nigeria on May 7.
Wanjala urged fans back home to believe in the team, emphasizing the intensive preparation they’ve undergone under head coach Salim Babu.
“Kenyans should have full confidence in us. We’re ready to represent the country with pride. The training has been top-notch, and we promise to give our all. We won’t let the nation down,” he assured.
Beyond chasing continental glory, the tournament carries significant stakes the four teams that make it to the semi-finals will secure qualification for the FIFA U20 World Cup set for Chile in 2025.
This marks Kenya’s debut at the biennial AFCON U20 tournament, now in its 18th edition (25th if including non-hosted versions), with 13 nations vying for continental supremacy and a shot on the global stage.
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