Rising Stars skipper Amos Wanjala has revealed ambitious targets set by the team ahead of their maiden appearance at the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations (AFCON) championship in Egypt.

Wanjala says the side is going for the ultimate prize of clinching the title in only their first attempt at the continental games.

Speaking to the media on Monday, April 28, 2025, the Spain-based defender shared details of the team’s preparations after landing in North Africa on Monday, April 21, 2025.

Kenya battled to a 2-2 draw against Ghana as part of their preparations in Egypt, with the captain affirming their readiness for the task ahead.

“We’re going on with great preparations ahead of the upcoming Afcon U20 championship; the players are in high spirits, everyone is focused, and we are ready to face any team,” he said. 

Salim Babu’s charges will open their campaign this Thursday, May 1, 2025, against Morocco at 6 pm.

The clash will mark the start of a journey that could see the team join their female U17 counterparts among the teams to have successfully qualified for the World Cup if they finish among the top four nations.

Wanjala, while urging the Kenyan fans to be hopeful, stated the team’s clear objectives and targets. 

“ Our target is to qualify for the World Cup, and for us to secure that World Cup slot, we need to be champions here. So either way, we need to win. We have not come here as losers, we are here to win,” he affirmed.

“We will put up a spirited fight. Fans should be confident and expect a memorable tournament,” he added.

After Morocco, Stars will face Tunisia on Sunday, May 4, 2025, before wrapping up their group stage fixtures against Nigeria on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.

All of the team’s clashes will be staged in Cairo’s 30th June Stadium.

The games kicked off on Sunday, April 27, 2025, with Egypt claiming an opening victory over South Africa.