Kenya’s U-20 national football team, the Rising Stars, has ignited hope for the future of Kenyan football after securing a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Their triumphant campaign in Tanzania during the CECAFA U-20 AFCON qualifiers saw them finish top of Group A and make it to the final, demonstrating the potential to be a strong force in continental football.
Coach Salim Babu praised the players for their remarkable efforts, highlighting that while they excelled, the team still needs better preparation before the upcoming AFCON tournament. Among these young players, several have stood out with performances that suggest they could be fast-tracked into the senior Harambee Stars squad.
The following are six Rising Stars players who have shown promise and are on the cusp of breaking into the senior national team.
1. Baron Ochieng
Baron Ochieng, a Sofapaka defender, has already made a strong case for inclusion in the Harambee Stars squad. He is the only player in the Rising Stars squad to have earned a full call-up, having been drafted in as a replacement for Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma during Kenya’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Burundi and Ivory Coast.
Ochieng is known for his versatility. Though primarily a right-back, he can play on either flank or even take up an attacking role as a winger. During the qualifiers, he demonstrated his ability to switch seamlessly between defensive and attacking duties. Ochieng particularly impressed in an inverted role, working effectively with fellow Rising Star William Gitama.
The defender’s energy, technical ability, and tactical intelligence make him a standout talent. His potential has already caught the attention of international scouts, with Ochieng being invited for trials in Sweden earlier this year. A bigger move to Europe seems likely, and with the senior national team looking for fresh options, he may soon cement his place in Harambee Stars’ starting lineup.
2. Kelvin Wangaya
Kelvin Wangaya has been a revelation throughout the tournament, scoring four goals and providing one assist. A dynamic attacking midfielder, Wangaya’s ability to link play, drop deep, and initiate attacks has set him apart. His comfort on the ball and knack for scanning the field before receiving possession make him reminiscent of Cesc Fabregas in his prime.
Wangaya’s tactical intelligence, combined with his agility and precision, was instrumental in Kenya’s qualification for the U-20 AFCON. His ability to play between the lines, break down opposition defenses with incisive passes, and contribute goals makes him a unique asset.
Having come through the FKF school of excellence, Wangaya’s development has been methodical, with key aspects of his game instilled from a young age. After a stint with Kariobangi Sharks, he moved to Albania, where his technical abilities have flourished. With proper guidance, Wangaya is destined for great things possibly even a future in one of Europe’s top five leagues and could soon find himself called up to the senior national team.
3. William Gitama
Gitama’s ability to operate as both a defensive midfielder and center-back has been a key factor in the Rising Stars’ solid performances. He combines excellent positioning with composure under pressure, ensuring his team remains organized during transitions. His partnership with Ochieng in defense was one of the highlights of the qualifiers.
The player’s physicality, tackling ability, and calm distribution from the back suggest he is ready to take the next step into senior football. His reading of the game also reflects maturity beyond his years, making him a player to watch. With Harambee Stars in need of reliable defensive options, Gitama is likely to be on the radar of senior coach Engin Firat for future call-ups.
4. Moses Omondi
Moses Omondi, a speedy and skillful winger, caught the attention of fans and scouts alike during the tournament with his electrifying performances. Omondi’s ability to take on defenders, beat them with pace, and deliver pinpoint crosses makes him a constant threat down the flanks. He registered two assists during the competition, providing crucial moments of creativity for the team.
Omondi also boasts versatility, able to switch between the left and right wings with ease. His direct style and willingness to take risks in the final third are qualities that Harambee Stars could benefit from. With Kenya’s senior team seeking attacking reinforcements, Omondi’s breakthrough appears imminent.
5. Brian Odhiambo
Odhiambo was a defensive pillar throughout the tournament. The center-back’s strength, aerial dominance, and leadership on the pitch made him one of the standout performers. His ability to command the backline and organize teammates reflects a natural leader in the making.
What sets Odhiambo apart is his technical proficiency. Comfortable with the ball at his feet, he initiates attacks from deep, breaking lines with accurate passes. His performance during the qualifiers earned him rave reviews, and it is only a matter of time before the senior national team integrates him into their plans.
Odhiambo’s blend of physical presence and tactical awareness positions him as a potential future captain of Harambee Stars. As the senior team rebuilds for the future, his inclusion could inject youthful energy into the defense.
6. John Kibet
John Kibet’s exceptional performances as a central midfielder have drawn comparisons to Kenya’s senior internationals. A tireless worker with an eye for a pass, Kibet dictated the tempo of games, ensuring his team remained in control. His distribution was instrumental in Kenya’s build-up play, and his ability to cover large areas of the pitch provided balance between attack and defense.
Kibet’s versatility allows him to play as a holding midfielder or in a more advanced role, depending on the team’s needs. His football intelligence and tactical discipline will undoubtedly attract the attention of senior team selectors. With proper mentorship, Kibet could soon become a regular feature in the national team midfield.
Honorable Mention: Ibrahim Wanzala
Ibrahim Wanzala, the Kakamega Homeboyz goalkeeper, deserves recognition for his outstanding performances. His impressive command of the area, coupled with excellent organizational skills, earned him the award for the tournament’s best shot-stopper. Wanzala’s crucial saves played a vital role in Kenya’s success, and his confidence in goal was reassuring for the team.
Although Wanzala narrowly misses out on this list, his performances suggest that he could soon be competing for a place in the senior Harambee Stars squad. Given Kenya’s search for a long-term solution between the posts, Wanzala may find himself earning a call-up sooner rather than later.
Conclusion
The Rising Stars’ successful campaign in the CECAFA U-20 AFCON qualifiers has provided a glimpse into the bright future of Kenyan football. Several players from this talented group have demonstrated the potential to transition seamlessly into the senior Harambee Stars squad.
With the 2025 AFCON on the horizon and the senior team in a rebuilding phase, coach Engin Firat would be wise to integrate some of these youngsters into the national team setup. The combination of youthful energy, technical prowess, and tactical awareness exhibited by these players could provide Harambee Stars with the edge needed to compete at the highest level.
The progress of these Rising Stars serves as a testament to the importance of investing in youth development programs. If nurtured correctly, these players could form the core of Kenya’s national team for years to come, paving the way for a brighter future for Harambee Stars and Kenyan football.
