Kenya’s national men’s under-20 football team, the Rising Stars, saw their hopes of progressing to the knockout stages of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) severely dented after falling 3-1 to Tunisia on Sunday, May 4, in their second Group B match at the 30th June Stadium in Cairo.
This game marked Kenya’s second consecutive defeat, following a narrow 3-2 loss to Morocco in their tournament opener on Thursday.
Despite making their historic debut at the continental tournament, the Rising Stars started with confidence, dictating possession and tempo. Their early dominance was rewarded in the first half when striker Lawrence Okoth—also referred to as Lawrence Omar or Lawrence Ouma—slotted home a clinical finish from a pinpoint Hassan Beja cross. The goal, scored between the 35th and 39th minute, showcased Beja’s relentless work on the left wing and ability to deliver under pressure.
However, Kenya’s lead was short-lived. In an extended first-half stoppage period—necessitated by multiple game delays—Tunisia leveled the score through a penalty. The spot-kick was awarded after a VAR review determined Kenyan defender Baron Ochieng (also referred to as Baron Oiang) had handled the ball in the box. Fares Bousnina (or Farz Busina) calmly converted from the spot, beating goalkeeper Wycliffe Oduor (also known as Wycliford or Clifford Oduor), leveling the match at 1-1 heading into halftime.
The second half saw Tunisia take control. The North Africans, coached by Abdelhay Ben Soltane, executed their tactical plan to perfection. In the 69th or 70th minute, Omar Ben Ali (also known as Omar Benali) capitalized on a mix-up between Kenya captain Amos Wanjala and goalkeeper Oduor to score into an empty net. Some reports suggest Oduor mishandled a cross from Nacim Dendani while colliding with a defender, allowing Ben Ali to pounce.
Tunisia sealed the win in the 85th minute when substitute Alaeddine Derbali (also known as Aladin Devali) fired a speculative long-range strike that unexpectedly floated into the top corner, catching Oduor off-guard and sending the Kenyan defense into disarray.
The defeat leaves Kenya’s Rising Stars with two losses from two matches, and their hopes of advancing now rest on slim mathematical possibilities. To keep any chance of progression alive—potentially as one of the best third-placed teams—Kenya must defeat a strong Nigerian side in their final group match on Wednesday.
Kenya’s defensive shortcomings were once again exposed, with the team struggling to protect leads and making costly errors at the back. Goalkeeper Clifford Oduor came under scrutiny for his role in Tunisia’s second and third goals, while right-back Baron Ochieng also struggled defensively. The team’s inexperience at this level was evident, particularly in game management and handling pressure.
Still, there were bright spots for Kenya. Striker Lawrence Okoth continued his strong form with his second goal of the tournament, while midfielder Kevin Wangaya stood out for his composure and drive in midfield.
Tunisia, who had lost their opening match to Nigeria, revived their qualification hopes with the comeback win, ending a four-match winless streak in U20 AFCON tournament finals. The top four teams at this year’s tournament will earn a coveted spot at the FIFA U20 World Cup set to take place in Chile later this year.
As for the Rising Stars, pride will be on the line in their final group match. Though the mountain ahead is steep, the young side will be hoping to bow out with a strong performance against Nigeria and gain valuable experience for the future.
