CECAFA U18: Coach Babu names final squad

By Peter Ochieng

National U18 boys’ soccer team head coach Salim Babu has named his final squad ahead of the 2023 CECAFA U18 championships.

The tournament kicks off on Saturday, 25th December, 2023, with Kisumu and Kakamega being the host towns.

Salim Babu’s provisional squad released a week ago had over 30 players drawn from various schools, and clubs around the country. The final squad released on Thursday has been trimmed to only 23 players.

The team comprises of a blend of school team players, and those that participate in various Football Kenya Federation (FKF) run leagues such as FKF Premier League and National Super League (NSL).

FKF Premier League contingent of Kariobangi Sharks’ Stanley Wilson and Sigmunn Maina, Sofapaka’s Baron Ochieng, Ulinzi Star’s Lucas Maina and Kakamega Homeboyz’ Ibrahim Wanzala will add the much-needed experience to the side.

United States of America (USA)-based Louis Ingavi and Nastic Sports Academy trio of Aldrine Kibet, Amos Wanjala and Alvin Kasavuli also make the squad.

Final Squad

Goalkeepers: Ibrahim Wanzala, Joshua Keya, Junior Odhiambo.

Defenders: Baron Ochieng, Joseph Bate, Amos Wanjala, Manzur Okwaro.

Midfielders: Stanley Wilson, Dalphene Ezekiah, Tyron Kariuki, Lucas Maina, Adrian Oloo, Elly Awino,Sigmun Maina, Alvin Kasavuli, Collins Ochieng, Kevin Musambai, Joseph Omuse, Humphrey Omondi.

Forwards: Syphas Otieno, Dancan Odhiambo, Louise Ingavi, Aldrine Kibet.

The team departed for Kisumu today where it will play all matches. Kenya has been pooled in group A alongside Somalia, Rwanda, Sudan and Djibouti. Group B has Tanzania, Zanzibar, South Sudan and Uganda. All group B matches will be played in Kakamega.

Group leaders and runners up will face off in semis upon conclusion of group matches.

Junior Stars will face Sudan in their opening match on Saturday. The Championship will run to December 9th, 2023 when the final will be played in Kisumu.