Kenya’s U20 team, the Rising Stars, cruised to a dominant 4-0 victory over Djibouti on Sunday, 13 October, bouncing back to winning form.AFC Leopard’s midfielder Hassan Beja opened the scoring, followed by Lawrence Okoth, and two goals from Kevin Wangaya sealed the win.The Rising Stars entered the match needing a win after dropping points in their second group game against Rwanda.##NAJAVA_MECA_8412015##Fully aware of the stakes, head coach Salim Babu made two changes to the lineup, replacing Kelly Madada and Louis Ingavi with Aldrine Kibet and Lawrence Ouma.Kenya controlled the match from the outset, taking the lead in the fourth minute when Bandari’s William Gitama forced a defensive error in Djibouti’s box, allowing Beja to put Kenya ahead.Six minutes later, a quick exchange between Kibet and Albania-based Wangaya ended with the latter slotting the ball into the net to double Kenya’s advantage.Firat speaks on Matasi’s errors against CameroonDjibouti struggled throughout the game, and their troubles deepened when Beja won a penalty in the 25th minute, which Wangaya coolly converted, putting Kenya 3-0 up.Djibouti’s only chance came in the 36th minute, breaking through Kenya’s backline, but former Rainbow defender Manzur Okwaro made a timely clearance, ensuring Kenya went into halftime with a commanding lead.Harambee Stars captain Olunga doubtful for Cameroon clashIn the second half, Wangaya intercepted a pass near the halfway line, drove forward, and delivered a perfect through ball, which Okoth tapped in off the post to make it 4-0.Wangaya’s performance highlighted his growth over the past two years since making his debut for Kariobangi Sharks. The former Kibera Black Stars player has now scored three goals and provided one assist in the ongoing tournament.Kenya continued to dominate but missed several chances to extend their lead.Former AFC Leopards captain reflects on stripped role, career struggles, and future prospectsWith this win, the Rising Stars are back at the top of the table with seven points after three games.Tanzania and Sudan follow closely with six points, while Rwanda has one point, and Djibouti remains without a point.
