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Rising Stars head coach Salim Babu says today’s friendly against Ghana will serve as a litmus test for Kenya’s Under-20 squad ahead of their opening clash at the Africa U20 Cup of Nations against Morocco.
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The continental showpiece kicks off this Sunday in Cairo, Egypt, and runs until May 18. The Rising Stars are drawn into a daunting Group B alongside Morocco, Tunisia, and perennial powerhouse Nigeria.
Kenya’s campaign begins on May 1 against Morocco, followed by a May 4 showdown with Tunisia and a group finale against Nigeria on May 7.
Having touched down in Cairo on Monday, the Stars are settling into the Egyptian heat as they fine-tune their form for the high-stakes tournament.
"We have a friendly match against Ghana on Thursday. This is vital. It gives us a proper gauge of our preparedness and offers a sneak peek into how we should approach Morocco."
"It’s not just a warm-up, it’s part of the bigger plan," Babu revealed.
The veteran tactician is confident in his young charges, insisting they are ready to rise to the occasion. “The boys are in great shape and eager to make a statement—not just in the friendly, but throughout the tournament."
Babu hinted that a strategy is already in place to dismantle Morocco, the 1997 U20 champions. “We have a plan, and if the boys stick to it, I am confident we’ll deliver a performance to remember."
He, however, warned against underestimating the North Africans. "That said, Morocco are no pushovers—we expect a tough match, but we’re up for it.”
The mood in camp is buoyant, with the players acclimatising well to the Egyptian climate and the magnitude of the challenge ahead.
"We arrived well in Egypt and the boys have already adjusted to the climate. The weather has not been as harsh as we expected."
“The boys have adjusted quickly, and the morale is sky-high; they know what’s at stake," he noted.
He reiterated their resolve of not just being competitors but worthy opponents. "We don't want to be just participants in this tournament, we want to be challengers."
Rising Stars captain Amos Wanjala echoed his coach’s optimism, saying the team is gelling well as they sharpen their edge for the battles ahead.
“The camp vibe is fantastic. We are building chemistry in training and focusing on being in sync before the tournament begins,” Wanjala said.
He also had a word for the fans back home. “We have got a strong squad and we promise to put on a show. Keep the faith, good things are coming.”
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