Fans make a hours long journey to Kisumu, eager to witness the CECAFA U-18 final showdown between Kenya and Uganda.
On a bright Friday morning, thousands of football fans descended upon the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo, Kisumu, eagerly anticipating the Council of East and Central African Football Associations (CECAFA) U-18 Boys Championship final.
Supporters of the Junior Stars from Kisumu and various neighboring counties had already embarked on their journey to the stadium, transforming the venue into a sea of excitement well before the scheduled 2 PM kickoff time.
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FOOTBALL CECAFA U18 Final: Kenya out to claim trophy against familiar foes Uganda
Junior Stars will be facing Uganda in a winner-takes-all contest at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Kisumu. Can they deliver the trophy?
The CECAFA U-18 final, set against the backdrop of a stadium with a seating capacity of 15,000 spectators, promised to deliver a fierce showdown between the hosts Kenya and their archrivals Uganda.
Kenya secured their spot in the CECAFA U-18 Boys Championship final after a nail-biting victory against Tanzania on Tuesday, December 5.
The match had ended in a goalless draw after regulation time, forcing it into extra time, but neither team could break the deadlock.
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It all came down to a penalty shootout, where Kenya's Ibrahim Wanzala played the hero, saving two crucial penalties and allowing Sephas Owuor to score the match-winning penalty.
"I have watched them play two times, and they are a good side. Yes, they are physically bigger than us, but sometimes football is not just about the physical aspect. We have the skill, we have the speed, and I believe we can beat them," noted Coach Salim Babu of the Junior Stars, exuding confidence ahead of the highly anticipated match.
As the stadium brimmed with anticipation, Babu is expected to name the lineup that would carry Kenya's hopes in the final.
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The likely starting lineup include Ibrahim Wanzala as the goalkeeper, with Baron Ochieng, Amos Wanjala, and Manzur Okwaro forming the defensive line.
In the midfield, the heart of the team, fans could expect to see Collins Ochieng, Stanley Wilson, Joseph Omuse, Tyron Kariuki, and Elly Owande orchestrating the play.
Upfront, the attacking duo of Aldrine Kibet and Louise Ingavi are set to spearhead Kenya's efforts to clinch the CECAFA U-18 title.
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Before the highly anticipated final showdown between Kenya and Uganda, there was the matter of the third-place playoff between Rwanda and Tanzania.
As the minutes ticked closer to kickoff, the stadium buzzed with an infectious energy and excitement.
Fans from far and wide had gathered, their eyes fixed on the talents of Junior Stars and the fierce competition about to unfold on the pitch.
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Possible line-up:
Junior Stars:. Ibrahim Wanzala, Baron Ochieng, Amos Wanjala, Manzur Okwaro, Collins Ochieng, Stanley Wilson, Joseph Omuse, Tyron Kariuki, Elly Owande, Aldrine Kibet,Louise Ingavi