Baron Ochieng: Bullish Rising Stars Defender Warns Rivals ‘Will Cry’ at U-20 AFCON

Baron Ochieng is bullish ahead of Rising Stars' AFCON U-20 Campaign. Image || Imago

Baron Ochieng: Bullish Rising Stars Defender Warns Rivals ‘Will Cry’ at U-20 AFCON

Mark Kinyanjui 16:00 - 13.04.2025

Baron Ochieng' has expressed optimism Kenya's Rising Stars have everything it takes to go all the way at the upcoming U-20 AFCON.

Rising Stars right back Baron Ochieng has revealed qualities about the side that will make them dominate the upcoming U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to be held in Egypt later this month.

Ochieng, who is the stand-in captain in the absence of Amos Wanjala, who is expected to jet in Nairobi on Monday, was conversing with teammate Kevin Wangaya in a humorous interview, and the Sofapaka man was full of confidence.

Stars have taken part in friendlies against a number of Premier League opposition. During the week, they took part in friendlies against FKF Premier League leaders Kenya Police and title challengers Tusker. 

They drew 1-1 with the Law Enforcers, before losing 3-2 to the Brewers last Saturday. Despite the results, Rising Stars look well on course to do well at the tournament.

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"I feel wonderful, bro. If you look at the way we’re playing — it’s fantabulous, man,” Ochieng joked responding to a question by Wangaya on their performances from the multiple friendlies they have been taking part in.

“ I’m really happy seeing my teammates play good football. That motivates me as  captain. We know we’re going for the title," Ochieng added.

Discussing the mood in the camp, Ochieng reveled in the camaraderie that has developed between the players, and heaped praise on the impact Zech Obiero has brought into the team.

"The energy is very right, as you can see. The preparation so far has been good, and the way we've prepared — my friend, have you looked at the team yourself (Kevin Wangaya)?"

With the likes of Andreas Odhiambo, Stanley Wilson and Wanjala set to boost the side, Ochieng is a man thumping his chest.

"You're one of our good players, I love it! Thank you.  I love Obiero (Zech) We're also missing Andreas (Odhiambo) here… they will cry, my friend. They will cry."

Ochieng, who was linked with a move to Gor Mahia last January, also sent a bold message to the fans.

"One thing I can tell them — this is a new generation. We are the Gen Zs, so they should expect something good, something more. Because we're serious — I'm not joking — we are serious."

Ochieng, who has in the past landed a call up to the senior national team, says they are not afraid to face any opponent in the showpiece.

"I feel we are at our prime as a team. We are not going there as underdogs, but to fight. Our aim is to play all the way to the final," he added. 

Kenya qualified for the tournament after finishing second at the CECAFA qualifiers, held in October last year in Tanzania. 

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