Kenya edge Tanzania in CECAFA AFCON U20 Qualifiers

Kenya's Rising Stars kicked off their AFCON U20 CECAFA qualifier campaign with a 2-1 win over hosts Tanzania at the KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Albania-based midfielder Kevin Wangaya opened the scoring for Kenya in the 23rd minute with a well-taken free kick. Kariobangi Sharks forward Andres Odhiambo added the second goal in the 66th minute, putting Kenya firmly in control of the match. Tanzania's Rahim Shomare pulled one back in the 76th minute with a free kick that took a tricky bounce past goalkeeper Ibrahim Wanzala.

Kenya started the game on the front foot, with Kelly Madada threatening early on, but Tanzania’s defense managed to hold. As the match progressed, both teams adjusted to each other’s play, though Kenya enjoyed more possession. However, breaking down Tanzania’s defensive line proved challenging in the early stages.

The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when Hassan Beja was fouled by Ally Salum after getting past his defenders. Wangaya stepped up and curled a free kick into the top left corner, leaving Tanzania's goalkeeper Remi Mpemba with no chance. Seven minutes later, Madada nearly doubled Kenya's lead, but his shot went narrowly wide.

Tanzania had an opportunity to equalize when Salum tried a long-range shot following a defensive miscommunication, but Wanzala comfortably handled the effort. Kenya took a 1-0 lead into halftime, with Tanzania needing a response.

After the break, Tanzania looked to control possession, while Kenya focused on maintaining their defensive structure. Despite Tanzania’s attempts, Kenya remained solid at the back. In the 66th minute, Odhiambo led a counterattack, combining well with Beja before firing a low shot into the bottom corner, securing a two-goal cushion.

Kenya made substitutions, bringing in Tyron Kariuki, Dalphine Omuri, and Lawrence Okoth to add fresh legs. Tanzania got a lifeline in the 76th minute when Shomare’s free kick took a deflection and bounced past Wanzala, setting up a tense finish.

Despite Tanzania's late efforts, Kenya held on to claim all three points. The Rising Stars will now face Rwanda in their second group match.