Kenya's Under-20 football team made history by earning their first-ever spot at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a commanding 4-0 win over Burundi in the U20 AFCON CECAFA qualifiers semi-finals, held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
In a thrilling Friday night match, the Kenyan squad showcased remarkable resilience and skill, delivering a standout second-half performance that left the Burundian team overwhelmed.
Strikers Lawrence Okoth, Hassan Beja, Aldrine Kibet, and Louis Ingavi each found the back of the net, heralding a new era for Kenyan football as they became the first men’s junior side from the country to qualify for the prestigious continental tournament.
Their remarkable achievement has ignited excitement across the nation, with fans celebrating this milestone as a major leap forward for Kenyan football on the international stage.
In the other semi-final, Tanzania secured a 2-1 victory over Uganda in extra time after the match ended 1-1 in regulation. Uganda initially went ahead through Toto Majub, but an unfortunate own goal by Ugandan goalkeeper Abdul Magada equalized the score, sending the game into extra time.
Jammy Seleman’s late goal secured Tanzania’s spot alongside Kenya for the U20 AFCON set to take place in South Africa next January.
With both teams now confirmed for the tournament, they will face off in the CECAFA Under-20 Championship final on Sunday, promising to be an exciting encounter for football fans across the region.
