With Kenya hosting the U-18 CECAFA tournament, the junior side has done all it takes to prove that we are a force to reckon with. Kenya began the campaign by thrashing Sudan 5 – 0 before beating Rwanda by a solitary goal.
In their third match, Kenya came from behind and clobbered Somalia 4 – 1. During the game, the head coach had benched Kenya’s top talents and was forced to make changes in the second half.
The side qualified for the Semi-finals and drew 0-0 with Tanzania before emerging victors by edging out our southern neighbours 4-3 on post-match penalties.
Junior Stars have reignited the hopes of football fans who see a promising future in side. This is especially important considering Kenya will be the co-hosts of the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Head Coach Salim Babu selected the team from a blend of talents drawn from the FKF Premier League, the National Super League, high schools and foreign based players.
In this article, WoK takes a look at the Kenyan U18 squad.
Goalkeepers
Ibrahim Wanzala
The youngster was born and raised in Busia County and has previously featured for the Kenyan U-15 team. He has been the man between the sticks for Kenya and currently plays in the Kenyan top tier league with Kakamega Homeboyz.
Wanzala saved 2 post-match penalties in the game against Tanzania. His heroics booked Kenya a ticket to the finals.
Defenders
Amos Wanjala: The 17 year old is the captain of the side and play for Nastic Sports Academy in Spain. His leadership and skilful display has received profound accolades. Wanjala also captained the St. Anthony’s side to the 2023 KSSSA victory.
Midfielders
Joseph Omuse (Solidarity Boys)
Omuse is a talented attacking midfielder who was part of the 2023 St. Anthony’s squad. After being orphaned at a young age, Omuse lived in the streets of Bungoma before a preacher rescued him and enrolled him to primary school education. He went on to join St. Anthony’s Kitale where he is currently the school’s games captain. Omuse recently made headlines when he was gifted football boots worth Ksh 100000 from former Leeds United striker Moreno Rodrygo.
Alvin Kasavuli (Nastic Sports Academy)
The former St. Anthony’s Boys player currently features for Nastic Sports Academy.
Tyron Kariuki (Rainbow)
The skilful winger has given defenders hard time due to his speed and mischievous take ons. The 17 year old plays for Rainbow FC.
Stanley Wilson is a player with a bright career ahead as he has previously received a call up to the senior national side. Previously, he played for Darajani Gogo before joining Kariobangi Sharks. He is the assistant captain for the Junior Stars.
Forwards
Louise Ingavi
Ingavi is a product of Goseta Boys High School Kitale and received a scholarship due to his skilful play. He is currently based in the US (Sima School).
The former Solidarity Boys talent currently plays for Nastic Sports Academy in Barcelona. Kibet’s ferocious attacks steered him to the limelight during the 2023 KSSSA tournament where he bagged dozens of goals. In the current CECAFA championships, he had already scored three goals.
