Kisumu, Kenya: In a remarkable display of skill and teamwork, the Kenya U18 Harambee Stars achieved a resounding victory over Sudan, with a scoreline of 5-0 in the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) tournament. This significant win underscores the team’s strong start in the prestigious regional competition.
According to Kenya News Agency, the U18 Harambee Stars’ performance is a source of national pride, especially as the host nation of the tournament. Speaking at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu, CS Namwamba commended the team for their impressive win against Sudan, achieved with just five days of training. He emphasized the ongoing efforts in building a junior team of formidable talents, including flying in players from overseas, like Louis Ingavi from Orlando, USA, and a trio from Nastic Sports Academy in Spain comprising Aldrine Kibet, Amos Wanjala, and Alvin Kasavuli. Additional players were selected from local clubs, sports academies, and schools, with a focus on skill enhancement and competitive performance.
Namwamba also highlighted the future potential of these young players, urging them to work hard towards winning the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027 and the World Cup in 2032. He stressed the importance of maintaining discipline and a positive attitude both on and off the pitch to succeed in football. “We want to prove to the world with the win against Sudan; people from West, North, and South Africa that we are ready to walk the talk. Our supportive President William Ruto and the government will strive to come in handy whenever needed,” he reiterated.
Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang Nyong’o also expressed his pride in the Junior Stars’ performance and assured ongoing support for the tournament being hosted in Kisumu City. He praised the team for their dominant win over Sudan.
The Kenya U18 team is set to continue its campaign in the CECAFA tournament with its next match against Rwanda on Tuesday, November 28, at the same venue. The team’s strong start and the support from national leaders and the local community set a positive tone for their upcoming games in the tournament.