Kenya’s Rising Stars have secured a historic qualification for the Under 20 Africa Cup of Nations(AFCON) after a thrilling 4-0 victory against Burundi in the ongoing CECAFA championships in Dar es Salaam Tanzania

Kenya’s Rising Stars have been a dominant force in the U20 CECAFA Championships in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The Rising Stars have gone unbeaten in all their matches since their debut against the Junior Taifa Stars, securing a 1-2 win on October 6, 2024.

Salim Babu’s squad has proven formidable, consistently delivering positive results, including yesterday’s match, in which Burundi suffered a crushing defeat. The boys pressed hard and relentlessly, causing numerous problems for the Burundian defense. Joslin Sharif Bipfubusa’s side remained calm and weathered the storm posed by the Kenyan strikers. The referee ended the first half with both sides locked in a goalless draw.

Seven minutes into the second half, Lawrence Okoth executed a clean finish to make it 1-0. The Rising Stars’ aggression seemed to increase as time went on. In the 68th minute, Aldrine Kibet provided a fine through pass to Hassan Beja, who skillfully ensured the scoreline read 2-0.

The Nastic Academy star found the net again in the 70th minute, with an assist from Lawrence Okoth, bringing the score to 3-0. The Burundians appeared exhausted, chasing after the ball in vain, unable to penetrate the rock-solid Kenyan defense led by captain Amos Wanjala. Just four minutes into added time, Luis Ingavi scored to seal a 4-0 victory.

The clean sheet means that the Rising Stars will face the hosts, the Junior Taifa Stars, in the final today. Kenyans also have every reason to celebrate, as the team has made history by qualifying for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time.