AFCON U20: Kenya and Tanzania Prepare for CECAFA Qualifiers Final Showdown
Kenya and Tanzania are set to face off in the final of the CAF U-20 AFCON CECAFA qualifiers today in Dar es Salaam. Both teams have qualified for the 2025 AFCON U-20 tournament but are vying for the regional title. Kenya previously defeated Tanzania 2-1 in the group stage and aims to maintain their unbeaten record, while Tanzania seeks redemption after that loss.
In a highly anticipated showdown, Kenya will confront Tanzania in the final match of the CECAFA qualifiers for the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) this afternoon at the KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam. Both teams have secured their places in the upcoming 2025 AFCON U-20 tournament; however, they are eager to clinch the regional title. Kenya aims to conclude their impressive run in the qualifiers with a victory following their previous triumph against Tanzania 2-1 in the group stage. Their record shows notable successes, having overpowered Burundi 4-0 in the semi-finals and remaining unbeaten except for a single goalless draw against Rwanda. Head coach of the Rising Stars, Salim Babu, recognizes the challenge posed by the home team. He stated, “Tanzania will want revenge, which makes the final tougher, but we’ve prepared well, and the players are determined to win.” Tanzania, on the other hand, seeks redemption after their earlier defeat to Kenya. They demonstrated resilience by winning four consecutive matches thereafter, including a 2-1 victory over Uganda in the semi-finals. Head coach Charles Boniface Mkwasa expressed optimism, saying, “We are happy to have qualified for AFCON U-20, but now we’re focused on winning the title.” The return of star striker Valentino Kusengama, who has scored four goals in the tournament, further bolsters their chances. Both teams have star players contributing significantly to their success: for Kenya, forwards Kelvin Wangaya and Aldrine Kibet, each with four goals, are pivotal in the title chase. In addition to the championship title, individual accolades will be awarded for top scorer, best player, best goalkeeper, and Fair Play. The qualifiers also serve as a stepping stone towards the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, which will be hosted in Chile. The host nation for the subsequent 2025 AFCON U-20 tournament will be declared in an upcoming CAF General Assembly scheduled for October 22 in Addis Ababa. Earlier today, Uganda played against Burundi in the third-place match at the same venue.
The CECAFA qualifiers for the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) provide an essential platform for regional teams to compete for a spot in the prestigious continental tournament. The qualifiers not only determine the teams that will represent East Africa at the AFCON but also serve as a precursor for qualification to the FIFA U-20 World Cup. The competitive spirit of regional rivalries intensifies campaigns, adding a layer of significance to these matches. Kenya and Tanzania, both boasting strong youth programs, have emerged through the qualifiers to represent their nations at the AFCON, making their final matchup especially noteworthy.
The upcoming final between Kenya and Tanzania in the CECAFA qualifiers stands as a pivotal moment for both teams, highlighting their journey towards competing on a larger stage at the 2025 AFCON U-20 tournament. With both teams showing exceptional performance and determination, this match not only aims to crown a regional champion but also reinforces the importance of youth football in East Africa, offering athletes a pathway to global competition.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
