Rising Stars head coach Salim Babu has named the final squad that will head to Egypt for the U20 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals.

Acknowledging how tough Group B will be, Babu said he has hopes that his players can fight and progress into the later stages of the tournament nonetheless. The Stars will face Morocco, Tunisia, and Nigeria at the preliminary stage.

“We acknowledge that we’re in a highly competitive group, but we also understand that to become champions, you must be ready to face the best. Our focus is on thorough preparation to give ourselves the best chance of achieving positive results and progressing deep into the tournament.

“This is a well-rounded and strong squad. I believe the boys have what it takes to compete at the highest level and provide great competition at the U20 AFCON. We are not going just to participate; we are going to compete and make our mark,” Babu said.

Rising Stars squad:

Goalkeepers: Kevin Oduor, Wycliford Oduor, Benard Jairo

Defenders: Baron Ochieng, Humphrey Obino, Jackson Imbiakha, Joseph Bate, Manzur Okwaro, Amos Wanjala, Telena Ochieng, Collins Ochieng

Midfielders: Kevin Wangaya, Emilio Brian, Irad Mshindi, Humphrey Aroko, Aldrine Kibet, Kelly Madada, Hassan Beja, Ezekiel Omuri, Elly Owande, William Gitama, Javan Omondi, Andreas Odhiambo

Forwards: Lawrence Ouma, Oliver Machaka, Mark Shaban

13 countries are set to battle for the continental supremacy in the tournament that is will start from April 27 to May 18, 2025.

Group B Fixtures

May 1: Kenya vs Morocco

May 4: Tunisia vs Kenya

May 7: Nigeria vs Kenya