Austin Odhiambo and Aldrine Kibet have been included in the final 23-man Rising Stars squad for the upcoming COSAFA tournament in South Africa.
Harambee Stars assistant coach Ken Odhiambo has unveiled the Kenya U23 Emerging Stars squad set to compete in the 2024 COSAFA Cup, scheduled from June 26 to July 7 in South Africa. The tournament will predominantly feature players under the age of 23, offering a valuable opportunity for Kenya’s Emerging Stars to gain international experience and exposure.
This competition also serves as a crucial preparatory stage for the 2027 AFCON, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The Emerging Stars squad is packed with young talent eager to make an impact on the international stage.
Among the notable inclusions are Austine Odhiambo, Chrispine Erambo, Byrne Omondi, and Kaycie Odhiambo. Additionally, promising U18 talents such as Aldrine Kibet, Elly Owande, Ibrahim Wanzala, and Amos Wanjala have been drafted into the final squad.
20:00 - 24.06.2024
Harambee Stars wunderkid Aldrine Kibet eager to mend CECAFA-U18 heartbreak by dominating in COSAFA Cup
Kibet, who is based in Spain, is eager to make more history in Kenyan colours for the side as they prepare to take on the COSAFA Cup tournament in South Africa.
Kenya has been placed in Group A alongside Zambia, Comoros, and Zimbabwe. The team is scheduled to depart for South Africa on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.
Coach Ken Odhiambo expressed confidence in the squad, highlighting the blend of experienced and young players as a strength. He emphasized the importance of this tournament in building a robust team for future competitions, particularly the upcoming 2027 AFCON.
"We have selected a squad that balances experience with youthful energy. The COSAFA Cup provides a perfect platform for these players to showcase their talent and gain invaluable experience," said Odhiambo.
The 2024 COSAFA Cup presents a significant opportunity for Kenya’s Emerging Stars to demonstrate their potential and lay the groundwork for future success.
18:00 - 24.06.2024
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With a well-rounded squad and a focus on development, the team aims to make a strong impression in South Africa.
Fans and stakeholders alike will be keenly watching the Emerging Stars as they embark on this exciting journey, hopeful that it will mark the beginning of a new era in Kenyan football.
Travelling squad:
Goalkeepers
Byrne Omondi, Ibrahim Wanzala, Dolph Junior
Defenders
Alphonce Omija, Paul Ochuoga, Sylvester Owino, Geoffrey Onyango, Hanniff Wesonga, Amos Wanjala
Midfielders
Stanley Wilson, Elly Owande, Chrispine Erambo, Aldrine Kibet, Austine Odhiambo, Patrick Otieno, John Ochieng, Kaycie Odhiambo, William Gitamu, Rooney Onyango.
Forwards
Benson Omalla, Jeremy Bissau, Alfred Tanui, Hassan Beja