Rising Stars qualify for 2025 AFCON with dominant win over Burundi

The national U20 football team, Rising Stars, has secured a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals after a strong 4-0 victory over Burundi in the CECAFA qualifiers' semifinals at the Azam Sports Complex on Friday.

Kenya needed a win against Burundi to join Tanzania in representing East Africa at next year’s tournament, which will feature 12 teams. Tanzania had earlier defeated pre-tournament favorites Uganda 2-1 in the first semifinal at the same venue, earning their place in the AFCON.

The Rising Stars are now set to face Tanzania in the final on Sunday. This match will be a rematch, as the two sides also met during the tournament's opening match.

Before traveling to Tanzania, assistant coach Anthony Akhulia shared that the team was inspired by the U17 girls' team, known as the Rising Starlets, who were the first Kenyan team to qualify for the World Cup and are currently competing in the Dominican Republic.

Kenya’s rising stars qualify for AFCON U20 with 4-0 win over Burundi in CECAFA semis. pic.twitter.com/YINBoSCPdX

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) October 18, 2024

Staying true to Akhulia’s optimism, the Rising Stars earned a spot in the AFCON, providing a much-needed boost to Kenyan football fans, especially with their impressive performances in contrast to the struggles of the senior team.

In the match against Burundi, Kenya entered as favorites, but the first half ended in a goalless draw as Burundi put up a strong defensive effort. Despite dominating play and creating chances, Kenya found it difficult to score, thanks to the outstanding performance of Burundi's goalkeeper, Ramadhan Ndikumana.

The Rising Stars came back stronger in the second half, with Lawrence Okoth scoring the opening goal in the 52nd minute with a close-range finish. This goal shifted the momentum, and Kenya quickly doubled their lead in the 66th minute when Hassan Beja’s speed allowed him to find the back of the net.

Just three minutes later, Aldrine Kibet added a third goal for Kenya after breaking through Burundi's defense and scoring past the exposed Ndikumana. This goal was Kibet’s fourth of the tournament, putting him in contention for the 'Golden Boot.'

Substitute Louis Ingavi sealed the win with a fourth goal in stoppage time (90+3rd minute), marking his first goal in the competition.

Kenya has yet to concede a goal in this tournament, and they will be aiming to keep a clean sheet in the final, which would strengthen Ibrahim Wanzala's chances of winning the 'Golden Glove'.