Kenya’s Rising Stars secured a resounding 4-0 victory against Sudan in their final Group A match of the CECAFA U-20 Championships held in Tanzania, with Aldrine Kibet of Nastic Academy delivering an impressive hat trick.
This win propelled Kenya to the top of Group A with ten points after four matches, earning them a spot in the semi-finals and keeping alive their hopes of qualifying for the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in history.
Heading into the match, Kenya needed just a point to secure a place in the semi-finals, but a win was crucial to avoid a semi-final clash with defending champions Uganda. The Rising Stars wasted no time, dominating possession early on.
Kibet opened the scoring in the fourth minute, heading home a corner delivered by AFC Leopards midfielder Hassan Beja.
Kenya nearly scored within the first two minutes, but Sudan’s goalkeeper Mohammed Abdalla Ibrahim was in fine form, denying multiple attempts by Beja and Kibet.
The Rising Stars continued their offensive push, and in the 22nd minute, Kevin Wangaya came close to doubling the lead after linking up with Spain-based Kibet, but Abdalla Ibrahim once again made a key save.
Kibet’s second goal came in the 40th minute, slotting home from close range after receiving a pass from William Mwangi, who was set up by Baron Ochieng.
Despite Sudan’s efforts to get back into the game early in the second half, Kenyan goalkeeper Ibrahim Wanzala was solid, keeping the clean sheet intact.
Sudan’s best chance came from a free kick in the 57th minute, but Wanzala was equal to the task, pushing away Ahmed Gobartalla’s effort. Moments later, Kenya capitalized on Sudan’s defensive frailties, with Wangaya scoring Kenya’s third goal in the 67th minute after a poor clearance from Elborae Gamal Elhag.
Kibet completed his hat trick in the 90th minute, securing the comprehensive win and confirming Kenya’s place in the semi-finals.
Now, the Rising Stars are just one win away from a historic qualification for the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. The top two teams from the CECAFA U-20 Championship will earn a spot at next year’s AFCON tournament.
Kenya’s coach Salim Babu will now prepare his team for the semi-finals, with the dream of reaching the U-20 AFCON within their grasp.
