- Kenya U17 set sights on CECAFA U17 title in Ethiopia.
- The tournament will take place from November 15th to December 2.
- Kenya is in Group A with Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Rwanda.
Kenya U17 assistant captain Armstrong Omondi has expressed confidence ahead of the Junior Stars’ opening match at the CECAFA U17 tournament, saying the team is fully focused on securing the regional title and earning a place in next year’s U17 Africa Cup of Nations.
Speaking from the team’s camp in Ethiopia, Omondi noted that the squad has shown good progress during preparations and he believes they have what it takes to go all the way.
“Our aim is to win this tournament. We have been working very hard because we know that reaching the final gives us a direct opportunity to qualify for the AFCON. The preparation has been solid, and as a team we feel ready for Tuesday,” Omondi said.
ALSO READ: William Muluya names Kenya U17 squad for AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers
Kenya U17 set sights on CECAFA U17 title
He added that the overall atmosphere in the camp has boosted morale and strengthened unity among the players.
“The mood in the camp is very positive. Everyone wants to win and our chemistry is excellent. All we need now is support from Kenyan fans and we are certain we can challenge for the title.”
Omondi also revealed the deeper motivation driving the team, saying the players understand what is at stake.
“We know where we come from and we understand that performing well here is one of the ways to move our careers to the next level and take a professional path in football,” he noted.
His teammate Mohammed Yusuf shared similar thoughts, saying the tournament is more than a competition for them.
“This is a great platform for us. We want to use this tournament to grow, to open doors, and hopefully go professional. Our target is to win it,” he said.
Goalkeeper William Ouma also expressed his personal ambitions, noting that the qualifiers offer a chance to showcase his talent on a bigger stage.
“It is a good platform for me as a goalkeeper, a chance to impress and possibly attract another club. But above everything, we are all focused on winning this tournament,” noted Ouma.
ALSO READ: Kenya U17 learn opponents for AFCON 2026 CECAFA Qualifiers
The Junior Stars begin their CECAFA Zone U17 AFCON qualifiers campaign against Somalia on Tuesday 18 November 2025 at 4pm at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Ethiopia.
Kenya will then face Rwanda on 21 November from 1 pm, followed by a match against South Sudan on 24 November.
They will conclude their group fixtures against hosts Ethiopia on 27 November at 3 pm. All matches will be played at Abebe Bikila Stadium.