Kenya’s U-20 national football team, the Rising Stars, will kick off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a high-stakes clash against Nigeria in Group B action on May 1. The match is scheduled to take place at 18:00 local time at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, Egypt.
This highly anticipated fixture will be a crucial opener for both teams in a group that also includes Tunisia and Morocco. For the Rising Stars, it marks a return to continental competition with hopes of making a statement against a traditionally strong Nigerian side. Nigeria, known for their dominance at youth level across the continent, will present a formidable challenge for the Kenyan youngsters.
The Rising Stars will be relying on the flair and creativity of attackers such as Aldrine Kibet, who has emerged as a key player in recent matches. With a dynamic midfield and disciplined defence, the Kenyan side is expected to approach the game with a mix of caution and ambition. Head coach Julius Ochieng has emphasized the importance of mental strength and tactical discipline ahead of the group stage battles.
Kenya’s second group match will see them face North African giants Morocco later that night, kicking off at 21:00 at the same venue. Morocco, known for their technical and structured style of play, will provide another stern test for the East Africans.
The 2025 edition of the Total Energies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations will run from April 27 to May 18 across three Egyptian cities Cairo, Ismailia, and Suez. The tournament format features three groups: Group A with five teams and Groups B and C each containing four teams. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed sides, will progress to the quarter-finals.
Host nation Egypt will open the tournament against Zambia on April 27 at the Cairo International Stadium in a late 21:00 kick-off. Earlier that day, Group A opponents Sierra Leone and South Africa will square off at 18:00 in Ismailia. Group C action begins on May 2 in Suez, with defending champions Senegal taking on Central African Republic at 18:00, followed by DR Congo against Ghana at 21:00.
This year’s tournament features 13 nations, each aiming for continental glory and one of four coveted spots at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile. The semi-finalists from the AFCON will automatically qualify to represent Africa on the world stage.
Kenya’s participation marks a significant milestone in the country’s youth football development efforts. The team’s qualification and competitive fixtures in Egypt present a valuable platform to showcase emerging talent and build momentum toward long-term success.
With stiff competition in Group B and only limited spots in the knockout rounds, every point will count. Kenya will aim to capitalize on their opening match to build confidence and increase their chances of advancing to the latter stages of the tournament.
The Rising Stars’ campaign will not only test their footballing credentials but also offer a glimpse into the future of Kenyan football. Fans will be eagerly watching as the team takes on some of the continent’s finest youth sides in what promises to be an exciting tournament.
