Coach Salim Babu Names Final Squad for AFCON U20 CECAFA Qualifiers

The National Under 20 national team head coach Salim Babu has named his final 20-man squad that will represent Kenya at the AFCON U20 CECAFA Qualifiers, scheduled to take place in Dar es Salaam from October 6-20, 2024.

Coach Salim released his final squad following a period of intense training, thorough assessments, and a series of build-up matches.

According to Salim, the selected squad embodies a well-balanced team prepared to compete at the regional qualifiers and reflects the steady progression of Kenya’s youth players, with several youngsters having risen through the ranks from earlier youth competitions.

Among the final squad are 11 players who participated in the 2023 CECAFA U18 Boys Championship. Notable names include Amos Wanjala, Tyron Kariuki, Aldrine Kibet, and Ibrahim Wanzala.

Additionally, Hassan Beja and William Gitamu earned their spots after featuring in the 2024 COSAFA tournament.

New faces to the national team include AFC Leopards sensation Kelly Madada as well as youngsters who have had a rising trajectory in their recent action for various teams including Lawrence Okoth, Jackson Imbiakha, Phabian Sheldon, and Rodgers Obusu, who make their debut in national team colors.

Drawn into a competitive Group A, Kenya will face hosts Tanzania, Rwanda, Sudan, and Djibouti.

The team is scheduled to travel to Tanzania on Friday, October 5, 2024.

Final Squad

Goalkeepers

Ibrahim Wanzala, Joshua Keya

Defenders

Baron Ochieng, Manzur Suleiman, Jackson Imbiakha, Joseph Bate, Amos Wanjala, Rodgers Obusu

Midfielders

Stanley Wilson, Tyron Kariuki, Kelly Madada, William Gitamu, Phabian Sheldon

Forwards

Louise Ingavi, Andres Odhiambo, Aldrine Kibet, Kevin Wanganya, Hassan Beja, Dalphene Ezekiah, Lawrence Okoth