Kenya U18 thrash Somalia for 100% win record in CECAFA group stage
By Collins Amanga, December 1, 2023
Kenya U18 had a strong finish in the CECAFA U18 Championship pool stage, securing a convincing 4-1 victory against Somalia at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega County.
Despite already securing a spot in the semis, the Junior stars aimed to end the stage on a high note.
Kenya U18 concede
Somalia took an early lead with Abdihafid Abdi’s powerful strike from outside the box, beating Kenyan keeper Ibrahim Wanzala in the 19th minute.
Undeterred, Kenya fought back, and Humphrey Aroko of Kariobangi Sharks FC leveled the score with a brilliant curling effort in the 25th minute, following a quick start from a corner.
The Juniors continued their momentum, and Stanley Wilson Omondi, another Kariobangi Sharks player, extended the lead with a goal in the 28th minute from a free kick, securing a 2-1 advantage at halftime.
In the second half, Kenya introduced Luis Ingavi, Tyron Kariuki, and Aldrine Kibet to enhance their attacking prowess.
Kenya U18 score twice
The team dominated the half, and Aroko, despite being fouled, unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box to beat Somalia’s keeper, securing the third goal.
The fourth and final goal came from Kibet, who unleashed a shot from outside the box, sealing a resounding 4-1 victory for Kenya. Meanwhile, in Kisumu, Rwanda triumphed over Sudan with a convincing 3-0 win in another exciting CECAFA U18 Championship match.