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Wangaya has been one of the standout performers for Kenya during the tournament as Salim Babu's charges sealed qualification to the U-20 AFCON.
Rising Stars assistant coach Anthony Akhulia has lavished praise on midfielder Kelvin Wangaya following his standout performances at the just-concluded CECAFA U-20 AFCON qualifiers in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.
Wangaya, who scored four goals and registered an assist, played a pivotal role in Kenya’s historic qualification for the 2025 U-20 AFCON, despite their 2-1 loss to Tanzania in the final.
Wangaya’s ability to influence the game from deep in midfield, where he showcased a knack for dropping back to build play, turning on the half-turn, and driving forward with the ball, earned him high praise from Akhulia.
His vision and precise passing drew comparisons to former Spain, Arsenal and Chelsea star Cesc Fabregas, highlighting his football intelligence and composure on the ball.
Speaking after the tournament, Akhulia emphasised the importance of Wangaya's contribution.
"Wangaya has been part of us. He played in Malawi during the U-20 tournament and also the U18s last year,” Akhulia told Pulse Sports.
“But looking at how the team has always been playing, Kevo (Wangaya) came in and has done a very good job. It was a great opportunity for people to see Kevo because not many knew him."
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12:23 - 21.10.2024
Six things learnt from Kenya's heroic U-20 AFCON qualification despite loss to Tanzania in CECAFA final
Six things we learnt from Kenya's CECAFA U-20 AFCON campaign in Dar Es Salaam Tanzania where they managed to seal a ticket to the 2025 tournament despite losing the final 2-1 to the hosts.
The Albania-based midfielder seized his opportunity in the absence of Stanley Wilson, who was expected to join the squad from AIK in Sweden but was unable to do so due to club commitments.
With Wilson unavailable, head coach Salim Babu turned to Wangaya, who proved to be a revelation throughout the tournament.
Wangaya’s performances were instrumental in helping Kenya reach their second-ever U-20 AFCON qualification, setting him up as a crucial part of the squad heading into the 2025 tournament.
Akhulia acknowledged the depth Wangaya has brought to the team, saying, “He has taken us to another level, and now we have an option. When Stanley comes back, the midfield will be sorted.”
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09:50 - 21.10.2024
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Though Kenya narrowly missed out on the title after Tanzania’s 2-1 comeback win in front of a packed KMC Stadium, the future looks bright for the Rising Stars.
With Wangaya’s rise to prominence, the team has a reliable playmaker capable of dictating the tempo and orchestrating attacks, which will be vital as they prepare for the U-20 AFCON next year.
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