Junior Stars complete a stunning comeback against Rwanda in U17 AFCON qualifiers
By Joel Masibo, November 21, 2025Two second-half goals from Nicholas Ochola (71) and Nasasiro Trevor (79) were all vital as Kenya’s Junior Stars beat Rwanda 2-1 to claim their first victory in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations U-17 Qualifiers at the Abebe Bikila Stadium, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Friday, November 21, 2025.
Head coach William Muluya unveiled a strong starting lineup ahead of their crucial encounter, a significant test for the Kenyan youngsters as they continue their journey in the CECAFA regional qualifiers, aiming to secure a slot in next year’s continental showpiece.
Starting XI
Muluya placed his trust in Captain Yusuf, who led the team from midfield, supported by a talented group of rising stars. Georgian started between the posts, while Raphael, Cosmas, and Simiyu marshalled the defence to keep Rwanda’s attack at bay.
In midfield, Eugene, Julius, Yusuf (C), and Khatete provided both stability and creativity, with the trio of Mchiti, Marcos, and Armstrong leading the charge in attack as Kenya looked to break through Rwanda’s defence.
The bench featured a wealth of options, including Collins Otieno, Golan Odiwuor, Rayse Ochieng, Maluki Trevor, Brighton Moses, Nicholas Ochola, Elvis Kimondo, Nathan Achola, and Nasasiro Trevor.
Ahead of the encounter, William Muluya had warned his boys against complacency after dropping points in their opening fixture against Somalia on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at the same venue.
In their first outing, Rwanda fell to Ethiopia, who now lead the group on six points. Muluya predicted a tough outing for his charges against a team he believed would pose a formidable challenge after losing their opener to the hosts.
Muluya cautions
“Our next opponents are a good side despite losing to Ethiopia. We have to improve at keeping possession; we lack physicality against the dominant teams. None of our players match their physical abilities, and we will need to put in the work to match them in physical aerial duels,” he stated.
The Kariobangi Sharks head coach had called upon his boys to believe in themselves and record a decent result. Kenya, who are pooled in Group B, were out to upend the neighbours for a maiden victory.
“The players have to believe in themselves. This is a knockout tournament in progress. We have three games to go; it will be tough with Ethiopia already on three points. We also look to attain safety,” he added.