Kenya U20 men’s football side, aptly dubbed the Rising Stars, will write a new chapter in their footballing journey on Thursday as they step onto the continental stage for the first time in their history.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsFacing Morocco on Thursday from 9 pm at the 30th June Stadium in their opening match of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations, this squad carries the hopes of a nation and the promise of a generation eager to announce itself to Africa.The Rising Stars booked their spot at the tournament through the CECAFA qualifiers, finishing second to hosts Tanzania in a tightly contested final that ended 2-1.Patrick Matasi’s whistleblower reveals why he exposed the suspended goalkeeperThe journey so far has been promising, with spirited performances and consistent growth under head coach Salim Babu. A recent 2-2 draw against Ghana’s U20 side in a friendly added further belief that this team can stand tall against African heavyweights.Captain Amos Wanjala, who plies his trade in Spain with Athletic Club Torrellano, summed up the mood in camp: “We are here to win… we did not come here as losers.”But behind the confidence and cohesion is a coach with a tactical blueprint — and a hidden card yet to be fully played.##NAJAVA_MECA_8894020##Salim Babu’s Tactical IdentityAt the heart of Kenya’s recent youth success is Salim Babu, a tactically astute coach known for his aggressive 4-2-3-1 system.His approach thrives on width, fluidity, and high-intensity transitions. Fullbacks are tasked with bombing forward, while the double pivot in midfield balances creativity and control.Gor Mahia details 3 reasons for choosing Machakos as venue for new stadiumDuring the CECAFA qualifiers, Andreas Odhiambo and Kelvin Wangaya anchored the midfield. Odhiambo provided defensive coverage, while Wangaya often broke forward — a license that yielded four goals, tying him as the top scorer alongside creative spark Aldrine Kibet of Spain’s Nastic Academy.Wide areas are crucial in Babu’s setup. Wingers like Hassan Beja and William Gitama were instructed to drift inside, creating central overloads, while the fullbacks, particularly Baron Ochieng, provided overlapping width. Ochieng’s dynamism and tireless engine made him a dual threat in both attack and defense.Up front, Babu experimented before settling on Lawrence Ouma over Luis Ingavi. Ouma’s physicality and ability to hold up play suited the system better, as it allowed goal-scoring midfielders like Kibet to operate freely behind him.##NAJAVA_MECA_8893847##Beja, though not prolific, contributed immensely with his direct runs and in the final scored Kenya’s sole goal.However, Babu’s aggressive setup has its flaws. The fullbacks’ high positioning often leaves gaps in transition, and the absence of a natural defensive midfielder can leave the backline exposed.But these are risks Babu accepts for the attacking edge his system brings — a risk that might just pay off with the right personnel.Confident Amos Wanjala backs Rising Stars to shine at AFCON U20 in EgyptThe X-Factor: Javan OmondiMissing from most starting lineups in recent build-up matches — yet firmly in Babu’s plans — is Ulinzi Stars winger Javan Omondi, a player who could be the Rising Stars’ secret weapon at this tournament.Since bursting onto the scene from high school football in 2023, Omondi has seamlessly transitioned into the FKF Premier League, establishing himself as one of the most dangerous young wingers in the country.##NAJAVA_MECA_8894036##Left-footed and lightning-quick, he combines raw pace with rare control — the kind of profile that terrifies defenders in 1v1 scenarios.Omondi’s explosive acceleration allows him to beat his man either inside or outside. He excels at receiving the ball under pressure, and when isolated on the wing, he often forces defenders to foul him as a last resort.Korastats reports that he completes 84% of his dribbles — the highest success rate in the FKF Premier League — and successfully receives 97% of passes played to him.Mathare United coach praises Gor Mahia fans for support in Tusker win, recalls 13-year-old favorThese numbers underline not just flair, but consistency and reliability in high-pressure moments.His attacking toolkit includes a strong first touch, sharp directional changes, and the ability to cut inside onto his stronger foot to shoot. Though his finishing requires refinement — often shooting from less optimal positions — his intent and presence constantly stretch defenses, creating space for teammates to exploit.Perhaps more importantly, Omondi brings a fighting spirit that stands out. Whether chasing back to support his fullback or carrying the ball deep into enemy territory, his commitment never wavers.##NAJAVA_MECA_8894054##He may not have started the high-profile friendlies, but his profile suits tournament football — the kind of player who can come off the bench and flip a game on its head.A Team Poised for a StatementThe Rising Stars enter the U20 AFCON not just to participate but to compete. With Salim Babu’s bold tactical identity, the creativity of Kibet, the leadership of Wanjala, and the untapped potential of players like Javan Omondi, Kenya has the tools to rattle even the most established sides.Harambee Stars forward set to end five-month stay with Iranian clubOmondi may not have started the journey with the spotlight, but as the tournament unfolds, do not be surprised if he ends up being Kenya’s joker in the pack — the unexpected ace who unlocks tight defenses and ignites the Rising Stars’ continental dream.
