The Rising Stars concluded their U20 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a spirited 2-2 draw against West African giants Nigeria at the 30th June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo, Egypt.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more news It was a result that not only earned Kenya their first-ever point at a continental U20 tournament but also cemented midfielder Kelvin Wangaya’s place in history as he became the first Kenyan to be named Man of the Match at a U20 AFCON competition.It was a night of resilience, tactical discipline, and moments of brilliance for Salim Babu’s side. While the result was not enough to keep them in the tournament, the performance was one to be proud of, particularly for a group still carving out its identity on the continental stage.Ticket prices and the four strict rules enforced in stadia at U20 AFCON matchesA Bold Start and a Battle of WitsKenya came into the game already eliminated, yet they played with freedom and tactical sharpness that belied their situation. Just ten minutes into the contest, Humphrey Ouma unleashed a stinging shot that was blocked by a Nigerian hand, winning Kenya a penalty.Up stepped Kelvin Wangaya—composed and clinical—to dispatch it with authority and hand Kenya the early lead.##NAJAVA_MECA_8910022##Nigeria, however, were always going to respond. Kparobo Nathaniel Arierhi restored parity with a well-taken effort after Kenya failed to clear their lines. But the Rising Stars were undeterred.They struck again in the second half, this time through a well-executed set piece in the 68th minute. Wangaya’s delivery was precise, and William Gitama rose highest to nod Kenya back in front.Unfortunately, the lead evaporated within minutes, as Daniel Bameyi slotted home from the spot after a handball inside the Kenyan box.U20 AFCON Diary: Why Victor Wanyama is famous in Egypt and Al Ahly’s harsh regulationsYet, despite the heartbreak of surrendering another lead, the story of the match was not defined by the scoreline, but by the tactical growth and individual flair that Kenya displayed.The Midfield Engine: Wangaya UnleashedSalim Babu’s side has developed a distinct identity, prioritising progression through the midfield—a style known in local circles as ‘kuachilia’. Against Nigeria, this philosophy was on full display, with the midfield once again serving as the heartbeat of the team.##NAJAVA_MECA_8910047##With regular partner Andreas Odhiambo on the bench, Wangaya assumed greater creative and attacking responsibility. Irad Mshindi anchored the midfield, allowing Wangaya to push higher and support Aldrine Kibet in the number 10 role.The result was a performance of poise and penetration from the Kakamega High School graduate.His numbers told part of the story—two shots on goal (the third most for Kenya), one goal, and consistent ball progression—but it was his presence and composure that elevated Kenya’s play. He was the only midfielder to both score and assist for Kenya in the entire tournament.What next for Richard Odada as midfielder faces uncertain Dundee United future?Beyond his press resistance and tireless work rate, Wangaya’s mastery over dead-ball situations stood out. His set-piece delivery that led to Kenya’s first goal in the tournament against Morocco showcased not just technical quality but game intelligence.Moreover, his willingness to test the goalkeeper from range gave Kenya a direct threat from outside the box—a rare asset at the youth level and a weapon that kept Nigeria’s backline on toes throughout.Tactical Flexibility and Defensive Grit##NAJAVA_MECA_8910014##Perhaps the most fascinating adjustment on the night came in the form of striker Lawrence Ouma’s positioning. Unlike his usual role pinned between the centre-backs, Ouma frequently drifted into the channel between Nigeria’s right fullback and centre-back.The tactic was a calculated attempt to pull defenders out of shape and open up central pockets for Aldrine Kibet. Though the move did not produce a direct goal, it forced Nigeria’s defense to stay stretched, which created valuable passing lanes and disrupted their shape.On the defensive end, Nigeria looked to exploit what had been Kenya’s Achilles heel—defending from wide areas. Their wingers repeatedly tried to isolate Kenya’s fullbacks, aiming to deliver crosses into the box. But this time, Kenya came prepared.Mixed reactions as fans weigh in on Kenya U20’s exit from U20 AFCONThe wingers diligently tracked back to support the fullbacks, creating two-versus-one scenarios that stifled Nigeria’s rhythm. Central midfielders also slid wide to double-team the wingers, ensuring Nigeria never had the space to turn and cause damage.In the box, Jackson Imbiakha and Joseph Bate were commanding in dealing with aerial threats, clearing multiple crosses and forcing Nigeria to resort to speculative long-range efforts, most of which posed little danger.A Night to Remember##NAJAVA_MECA_8910042##In the end, the final whistle brought with it the end of Kenya’s journey at the tournament. But it also marked a beginning—a turning point in how the Rising Stars are perceived, and a coming-of-age performance for their midfield maestro.Wangaya’s all-action display was a microcosm of the Rising Stars’ growth at this tournament: fearless, technically sound, and tactically aware.His ability to dictate tempo, his composure under pressure, his sharp decision-making, and his threat on set pieces made him a standout on the night—and a deserving Man of the Match.Mihic urges fans to keep peace as Mashemeji Derby returns to KasaraniFor Kenya, the road ahead is long, but with talents like Wangaya leading the way, the horizon has never looked brighter.
