Rising Stars Baron Ochieng is confident they will do well in the Africa Cup of Nations U20 Tournament set for April 27 to 18 May in Cairo, Egypt.
The Sofapaka defender, who doubles up as the team's assistant captain, believes despite the tough group they are ready and all teams have an equal chance of grabbing the second-round ticket.
Kenya will face seven-time champions Nigeria, Tunisia, and Morocco in a tough Group B, and despite exuding confidence, Ochieng expects tough fixtures against the much-fancied nations.
Originally Kenya was paired with Sierra Leone, Zambia, and defending champions Senegal, but things changed after Ivory Coast withdrew as hosts on March 26, 2025.
The Ivorians forfeited their automatic qualification spot, leading to the new draw by the Confederation of African Football.
“We have prepared well, and despite the draw, we don't fear our opponents, because even if we maintained the other group, we would still face the likes of Morocco in the knockouts," Ochieng said.
The right back believes they have to take on their new opponents according to the coaches’ tactics, and team work will be key.
Meanwhile, assistant coach Anthony Akhulia said they are confident of doing well, and they will come up with tactics for every game to ensure they reach the quarter finals.
“It is good that we are with Morocco in the same group; camping in their country will put us in better position because the weather in the North Africa is almost similar.
We need to get our tactics right and avoid losing the first match to boost their chances.” Said Akhulia.
The team leaves for Morocco for a 10-day camp tomorrow before heading to Cairo for their maiden tournament.
The travelling squad goalkeepers: Bernard Jairo Wyclifford Odour and Kevin Oduor. Defenders: Amos Wanjala (captain) Joseph Bate, Baron Ochieng, Henry Obina, Collins Ochieng, Telena Ochieng, Jackson Imbiakha and Manzur Okwaro. Midfielders: Kevin Wangaya, Emilio Brian, Irad Mshindi, Mark Shaban, Humphrey Aroko, Kelly Madada and Aldrine Kibet.
Kenya grabbed their ticket to the tournament after finishing second in the CECAFA U-20 after losing 2-1 to Tanzania in the finals in Dar es Salaam on 20 October 2024.
The fresh CAF draw conducted on Sunday, April 13, 2025, in Cairo, saw hosts Egypt paired with Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania in Group A.
Defending Champions Senegal will battle Central African Republic, DR Congo, and Ghana in group C.
The top two teams in each group, along with the two best third-placed sides, will advance to the quarter-finals. The four semi-finalists will grab their tickets to the Chile 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup.
