Kenya’s Emerging Stars, featuring FKF Premier League 2023/24 top-scorer Benson Omalla, are set to compete in the COSAFA Cup from June 26 to July 7, 2024, in South Africa.
Omalla, a 22-year-old Gor Mahia striker who clinched the Golden Boot with 19 goals this season, headlines the squad.
The team also includes promising U18 talents Aldrine Kibet, Elly Owande, Ibrahim Wanzala, and Amos Wanjala. However, notable absentees from the final roster are Sofapaka right-back Baron Ochieng, strikers Moses Shummah of Kakamega Homeboyz, City Stars’ Samuel Kapen, and George Gitau of Middlesborough in England.
Harambee Stars midfielder Anthony ‘Teddy’ Akumu, who has been unattached for several months, along with Gor Mahia midfielders Alfa Onyango and Shariff Musa, also did not make the cut.
Head coach Ken Odhiambo emphasized that the team predominantly consists of players under 23, aimed at giving them crucial international exposure. He acknowledged the challenge of competing against teams with more seasoned players but deemed it a valuable risk.
“Let me say it is a risk because other teams like Comoros are bringing 95 percent of their squad from the French league. But I think it is worth it. These young players have been waiting for this opportunity to showcase their talent. I believe with God’s help and our planning, we’ll prove ourselves. I’m confident that by July 7, we’ll be smiling,” said Odhiambo.
Kenya has been drawn in Group B, alongside Zambia, Comoros, and Zimbabwe. The team concluded its final training session at Nyayo National Stadium on Monday before departing for South Africa on Tuesday, June 25, 2024. They were invited to participate in the tournament as a guest team.
Coach Odhiambo expressed satisfaction with the squad’s fitness and readiness. “Most players have been active in local clubs, and thankfully, we have no injuries. We’ve prepared adequately, and I’m pleased all players have arrived in camp,” he said.
Kenya’s campaign kicks off against seven-time COSAFA Cup champions Zambia at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 7 pm EAT. They will then face Comoros at Wolfson Stadium on Sunday, June 30, at 1 pm EAT, followed by their final group match against Zimbabwe on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at 1 pm EAT.
