We want to win CECAFA U18 title -Junior Stars Team Manager

By Peter Ochieng

The national U18 boys football team, Junior Stars is going for nothing less than the 2023 CECAFA under 18 title.

Ronny Oyando, the team manager says their results in the group matches have shown that they want to win the inaugural CECAFA U18 boys tourney.

Kenya ran riot in group A, scoring 10 goals and conceded only one after a 5 nil win over Sudan, 1-0 over Rwanda, before thrashing Somalia 4-1 in the last group fixture.

Junior Stars play Tanzania on Tuesday at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, Mamboleo Kisumu, in the semi final.

Oyando says their intention is to beat Tanzania, book a final spot against either Rwanda or Uganda, and eventually win the title.

"Of course we are at home, pressure is immense and we are aware of the expectations of Kenyans. All the players are in the picture and we know what to do especially now that we are at home. Winning the CECAFA U18 title is our main goal and we are ready to push to the end," he said.

He said they have no injury concerns as all the 23 players are available for selection.

"Preparations are in top gear and every player is available for selection tomorrow. We don't have any injury news so far in our squad. We are training very well and mentally we are in the fine frame of mind. We definitely know the opponent (Tanzania), they are good but we are ready to battle them. All our players warrant starting because they are all equal and that is why we can come with any first eleven and register the required results,” added Oyando.

The side is coached by former Sony Sugar, Western Stima and Nzoia Sugar FC tactician Salim Babu.

Uganda, leaders of group B will battle Rwanda, runners up in group A in another semi final.

The final will be played on 8th December, 2023 in Kisumu.