Kenya U20 head coach Salim Babu has unveiled a provisional 35-man squad for the upcoming TotalEnergies U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to take place in Egypt from April 27, 2025.
The Rising Stars secured their spot in the continental tournament following a strong performance at the 2024 CECAFA U20 Qualifiers, where they finished as runners-up, narrowly losing to Tanzania in the final.
The squad announcement comes after a series of mini-camps designed to scout the best emerging talent across the country.
From an extensive initial pool, Babu and his technical team have selected a well-balanced mix of local and foreign-based players.
Among the key returnees from last year’s CECAFA Qualifiers squad are team captain Amos Wanjala, Manzur Okwaro, Baron Ochieng, Aldrine Kibet, Tyron Kariuki, Kelly Madada, Andreas Odhiambo, Kevin Wangaya, Hassan Beja, Ezekiel Omuri, William Gitamu, and Luis Ingavi.
Kenya is drawn in Group C, where they will face tough opponents: defending champions Senegal, Zambia, and Sierra Leone.
The Rising Stars will kick off their campaign against Sierra Leone on May 1, followed by a clash with Zambia on May 4, before concluding the group stage with Senegal on May 7.
The squad has now entered a residential training camp in Nairobi, with plans to play several build-ups matches in preparation for the tournament.
