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Rising Stars face Burundi in the CECAFA U-20 semi-final with a historic AFCON U-20 qualification at stake.
Kenya stands on the brink of history as the Rising Stars prepare for a crucial semi-final clash against Burundi in the CECAFA Under-20 Championship on Friday night in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
A place in the 2025 AFCON U-20 awaits the finalists and the Kenyan team led by coach Salim Babu is determined to seize this opportunity.
Below are the five things to look out for:
1.Kenya’s formidable defense
The Rising Stars head into the semi-final on the back of an unbeaten group stage performance which has been a huge confidence booster for the young side.
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09:30 - 17.10.2024
Rising Stars poised for crunch showdown against Burundi in U20 AFCON-CECAFA qualifiers
The U20 national team Rising Stars are eying a place in next year's U-20 AFCON with the finalists of this year's AFCON-CECAFA qualifiers representing the region at the continental showpiece.
They opened their campaign with a gritty 2-1 win against Tanzania, thanks to goals from Kelvin Omondi and Kelvin Wangaya, followed by a commanding 4-0 victory over Djibouti.
The draw against Rwanda showcased their defensive resilience with Kenya conceding just one goal across all group matches making them the meanest defense in the tournament.
"The boys have worked hard to get here, and they’ve shown incredible resilience throughout the group stage," said coach Salim Babu.
Kenya’s defense will be pivotal in the semi-final as they look to neutralize Burundi’s attacking threats, particularly from Burundi's top scorers Christophe Ndayikengurukiye and Ramazani Hakizimana.
2.The Wangaya and Kibet factor in attack
Kenya’s forward line has been sharp with Kelvin Wangaya emerging as one of the tournament’s leading scorers.
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16:10 - 15.10.2024
Hat-trick hero Aldrine Kibet shines as Rising Stars thrash Sudan to storm into CECAFA U-20 AFCON semis
Aldrine Kibet scored a hat-trick with Kevin Wangaya netting his fourth goal of the tournament, as Salim Babu's charges cruised to an easy 4-0 win.
The former Kariobangi Sharks man has been in scintillating form bagging crucial goals including a brace in the win over Djibouti.
Alongside Wangaya, Aldrine Kibet has also been a key attacking force and their combination will be vital in breaking down Burundi’s defense.
Burundi, who conceded four goals in a heavy defeat to Uganda, will have their hands full trying to contain Kenya’s dynamic duo.
"We know what is at stake, and we’re going in with one goal — to win and qualify for AFCON U-20," said Wangaya.
The Kenyan forwards will need to maintain their sharpness in front of goal if the Rising Stars are to clinch the semi-final victory.
3.Burundi’s strong determination
While Kenya enters the game as favorites Burundi will not be an easy opponent.
Burundi finished second in Group B and displayed flashes of brilliance, winning two of their three group matches.
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18:09 - 10.10.2024
Rising Stars fail to break down Rwanda in tight a CECAFA U-20 encounter in Dar es Salaam
Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances Rising Stars faced challenges in converting opportunities.
Under the guidance of experienced coach Gustave Niyonkuru, Burundi’s young stars have shown they are capable of pulling off upsets.
“We respect Kenya, but we are determined to fight for our country,” said Niyonkuru.
Burundi’s determination will be tested against a well-organized Kenyan side but their underdog spirit could make this a tightly contested affair.
4.The coaching battle: Salim Babu vs. Gustave Niyonkuru
Both teams are led by experienced coaches who have had success at various youth levels. Salim Babu, who has been working with this group of players since their U-18 days, has instilled a sense of unity and belief in the Kenyan side.
On the other hand, Burundi’s Gustave Niyonkuru has experience coaching both men’s and women’s national teams and will look to guide his side to a historic upset.
“This is a match where tactics will be critical. Both coaches know what’s at stake, and it will come down to who can best prepare their players for this high-pressure environment,” observed a CECAFA analyst.
5.AFCON U-20 qualification on the line
The biggest incentive for both teams is the opportunity to qualify for the 2025 AFCON U-20.
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11:45 - 06.10.2024
'We will set the tone' - Rising Stars coach Salim Babu warns ahead of crucial clash with Tanzania
Kenya is playing in the U-20 AFCON qualifiers for the CECAFA region that is running from October 6-20 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The two finalists of the CECAFA Championship will automatically earn their ticket to the continental showpiece.
With the stakes this high, the semi-final is expected to be a fiercely competitive encounter, with both Kenya and Burundi leaving everything on the pitch to secure their place.
Rising Stars are determined to end the long wait for a return to continental youth football while Burundi will aim to make their first-ever AFCON U-20 appearance.
Both teams are hungry for success, and fans can expect an intense and thrilling battle under the Tanzanian lights.
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