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The Rising Stars have surged to the top of the standings in the Four Nations Tournament following an impressive victory over Zimbabwe in the tournament’s opening match on Friday.

Kenya’s U20 squad secured a commanding 3-1 win over Zimbabwe, propelling them to the top spot due to a superior goal difference.

Rising stars above Malawi

This places them ahead of hosts Malawi, who also secured a win with a 3-2 victory over Zimbabwe.

Despite their efforts, Zimbabwe bowed out of the competition after completing their matches without earning any points.

Juu ya table🤭#FootballKE pic.twitter.com/3M7qAzl8Yj

— Ole Teya (@TeyaKevin) March 23, 2024

In the match against Kenya, Zimbabwe faced an early setback when Kenya capitalized on their offensive opportunities. Within the first 10 minutes, Hassan Beja set up Elly Olwande, who delivered a powerful shot to give Kenya an early lead.

Zimbabwe’s challenges continued as they lost their first-choice goalkeeper to injury, further strengthening Kenya’s attacking prowess. Olwande struck again, skillfully evading defenders to double Kenya’s advantage.

Although Zimbabwe managed to find the net, their goal was disallowed due to an infringement in the buildup. The first half concluded without further goals as both teams regrouped during halftime.

In the second half, Kenya extended their lead in the 66th minute, with Timothy Ouma delivering a precise cross for Beja to score, securing Kenya’s victory at 3-0.

Despite Zimbabwe’s efforts to narrow the gap, Kenya’s defensive resilience held firm. Zimbabwe managed to score a consolation goal amidst a defensive mix-up by Kenya.

With Zambia’s withdrawal from the tournament, the competition now features only Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Kenya’s Rising Stars.

The Rising Stars will face Malawi in their next challenge at the Bingu National Stadium on Sunday, March 24, 2024.

This tournament serves as a crucial platform for nurturing and showcasing elite youth talent, essential for the development of football at the national level.

Additionally, it provides valuable preparation for the upcoming 2024 AFCON Under-20 qualifiers, shaping the future of Kenyan football.

Rising Stars Fixtures

Friday, March 22, 2024

1. Kenya vs Zimbabwe (Bingu National Stadium, 3 pm)

Sunday, March 24, 2024

1. Malawi vs. Kenya (Bingu National Stadium, 3 pm)

Rising Stars Final Squad

Goalkeepers

Ibrahim Wanzala, Issa Emuria,

Defenders

Baron Ochieng, Junior Masinza, Faiz Ouma, Manzur Okwaro, Paul Ochuoga, Joshua Onyango, Joseph Bate, Collins Ochieng

Midfielders

Stanley Wilson, Timothy Noor, Sigmunn Maina, Andres Odhiambo, Ryan Ogam, Dalphene Ezekiah, Hassan Beja, Linus Munyao, Tyrone Kariuki, James Gachago, Elly Owande

Forwards

Christopher Koloti, Syphas Otieno