Kenya’s Junior Stars secured a spot in the final, setting up a showdown with Uganda, after overcoming neighbors Tanzania 4-3 in a post-match shootout on Tuesday.
The intense semi-final clash at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, Mamboleo in Kisumu concluded with a goalless draw after 120 minutes.
Kenya’s advancement hinged on Ibrahim Wanzala’s penalty heroics, saving the hosts after they failed to break the deadlock during the scintillating semi-final affair. Syphas Owuor of MOFA Academy sealed the victory by converting the final spot kick, while Wanzala’s crucial save denied Tanzania’s last attempt.
Collins Ochieng, Amos Wanjala, Humphrey Aroko, and Syphas Owuor successfully converted their penalties for Kenya. However, Stanley Wilson faced disappointment as his penalty kick was saved by Tanzania’s Anthony Mpemba.
The Tanzanian goalkeeper exhibited a stellar performance, making a crucial save to deny Stanley Wilson a goal in the second half, potentially securing Kenya’s place without extra time.
The closely contested match witnessed both teams struggling to breach each other’s defenses, with Tanzania actively working to thwart Kenya’s attacks led by Aroko and Tyron Kariuki.
Kenya emerged victorious in the post-match shootout, earning the chance to compete for the CECAFA U-18 title against Uganda. Uganda secured their place in the final by narrowly defeating Rwanda 1-0 on Friday at the same venue.
