Kenya Under-17 head coach William Muluya has announced his final 25-man squad that will represent the country in the U17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers, set to take place in Ethiopia from November 15 to December 2, 2025.

The Junior Stars have been placed in Group A alongside hosts Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, and Rwanda. They will be fighting for one of the two available slots for the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The squad, released on Saturday, November 8, 2025, features a blend of talented young players, most of whom were selected from school teams after impressing during regional scouting and training camps. The team is expected to travel to Ethiopia on Monday ahead of their opening match.

Kenya will begin their campaign against Somalia on November 18 at 4 pm, hoping to start on a positive note. They will then face Rwanda on November 21, South Sudan on November 24, and Ethiopia on November 27.

Two slots up for grabs

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals, with the two finalists earning CECAFA’s slots for next year’s AFCON.

Muluya’s final squad includes goalkeepers Georgian Chris, Golan Oliech, and William Owino. The defence will be anchored by Cosmas Asunga, Eugene Ochieng, Nevil Simiyu, Stephen Ochieng, Edwin Annan, Raphael Omondi, Brighton Moses, Julius Ochieng, and Trevor Maluki.

In midfield, Derrick Mchiti, Wayne Wamaya, Derrick Khatete, Rayse Ochieng, Armstrong Omondi, Brighton Nacheri, and Denzel Omollo will provide creativity and control.

The forward line features Nicholas Onyango, Trevor Nasasiro, Nathan Achola, Collins Ochieng, Jeconia Agutu, and Marcos William, who will lead the team’s attack.

The technical bench includes William Muluya as head coach, assisted by Peter Okidi and Kenedy Mbunga. Abdul Iddi Salim will handle the goalkeepers, while Eric Muranda oversees strength and conditioning. Stephen Mwangi serves as the kit manager, Andrew Ijela as the safeguarding officer, Edwin Gumbo as the team doctor, and Shaban Masika as the team manager.

With a balanced mix of talent and discipline, the Junior Stars are determined to make a strong impression in Ethiopia and return to the continental stage. Kenya last qualified for the U17 AFCON in 2007, and Muluya’s side will be keen to end that long wait.