Oyugi Tells Kenya U20s to Take Pride in AFCON Display
Despite their early defeats, Kenya’s U20 team draws praise for their spirited performances at the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt. The Rising Stars, coached by Salim Babu, faced Morocco and Tunisia in their inaugural tournament, and while they experienced losses, they displayed resilience that the country should celebrate.
Strong Start Amid Challenges
In their opener against Morocco, Kenya fought hard but was narrowly defeated 3-2. They showcased impressive skill, with Lawrence Ouma scoring first and the team managing to equalize twice during the match, demonstrating their tenacity. This display of dynamic football forced critics to reconsider their expectations, with many predicting a rout. Bob Oyugi, former Gor Mahia coach, emphasized the importance of these performances, stating, “They should not look down upon themselves but stand tall and be proud of what they have achieved in Egypt.”
Learning Opportunities for Future Growth
Kenya’s continued learning was evident in the match against Tunisia, where they again took an early lead, only to succumb to a 3-1 defeat after a strong second-half performance by the Carthage Eagles. Oyugi highlighted that this exposure to high-pressure situations is invaluable for player development. He noted the evolving tactical approaches in African football, urging Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to support the team more actively: “FKF should not neglect this team; they need to be kept together and exposed to international matches.”
Final Call to Action for Rising Stars
Looking ahead to their final group match against Nigeria, Oyugi encouraged the players to embrace the experience and enjoy their football. “Nigeria will be under pressure, allowing our young players to showcase their skills without the weight of expectation,” he concluded. Kenya may be at the bottom of their group with zero points, but the path forward is clear: continuous growth, support from FKF, and a focus on nurturing young talent for the future of Kenyan football are crucial.
