Junior Stars Close Out U17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers With a Fourth-Place Finish

Junior StarsJunior Stars Close Out U17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers With a Fourth-Place FinishDecember 10, 2025 Share: The Junior Stars wrapped up their 2025 U17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers campaign in Addis Ababa with a spirited fourth-place finish. While the dream of qualifying for the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco slipped away, the team delivered a campaign marked by growth, resilience, and standout individual performances. The Junior Stars wrapped up their 2025 U17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers campaign in Addis Ababa with a spirited fourth-place finish. While the dream of qualifying for the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco slipped away, the team delivered a campaign marked by growth, resilience, and standout individual performances. Strong Start in Group A Kenya opened their campaign with a solid 1–1 draw against a resilient Somalia. Mohammed Yusuf registered the Junior Stars’ first goal of the tournament, finishing off a well-worked corner-kick routine delivered by Nicholas Razel Ochola. Their second match, against Rwanda, became one of the tournament’s defining moments. The Junior Stars went 1–0 down in the first half, forcing the technical bench into decisive changes. Second-half substitutes Nicholas Ochola and Trevor Nasasiro completely reshaped the contest, Ochola equalised in the 71st minute before turning provider just eight minutes later for Nasasiro’s winner. It was a comeback full of character and tactical boldness. Kenya then delivered a composed performance in their third group match, securing a 2–0 win over South Sudan. Derrick Khatete struck early in the 12th minute from a Nasasiro assist, before Nasasiro sealed the result in the 89th minute. Despite a narrow 1–0 loss to hosts Ethiopia in their final group fixture, the Junior Stars’ strong performances ensured a second-place finish in Group A and a semifinal berth. Knockout Challenges In the semi-final, Kenya faced Group B leaders Tanzania. The Junior Stars fought hard but fell 3–1, with second-half substitute Armstrong Omondi scoring Kenya’s lone goal. This result sent Kenya into the third-place playoff — a rematch against Ethiopia. Despite their efforts, the Junior Stars were defeated 3–0, confirming a fourth-place finish in the tournament. Bright Sparks and Recognition Despite falling short of qualification, the Junior Stars produced several standout performers whose contributions lit up the tournament. Foremost among them was Julius Buong, whose remarkable consistency and versatility earned him a nomination as the team’s Most Valuable Player. Buong featured in every match of the campaign. When called upon to fill a makeshift left-back role, he embraced the challenge with confidence and maturity, delivering performances that reflected both discipline and heart. His relentless work rate and leadership presence made him an anchor within the squad and one of the most dependable figures throughout the tournament. Further individual recognition came in the form of the CECAFA Team of the Group Stage selections, where two Junior Stars earned places among the region’s best. Trevor Nasasiro was acknowledged for his decisive goal contributions, which propelled Kenya into the semi-finals and underpinned the team’s strong run in the group stage. Mohammed Yusuf, meanwhile, was celebrated for his steady influence in Kenya’s midfield. In attack, the Junior Stars were powered by their most productive contributors: Trevor Nasasiro, with two goals and an assist, and Nicholas Ochola, who delivered one goal and two assists. Their combined output formed the backbone of Kenya’s offensive play, driving key moments and ensuring the team remained competitive throughout the early stages of the tournament. Together, these individual performances highlighted the promise within the squad and offered a glimpse of a bright future for Kenya’s rising football talents. A Campaign of Progress Compared to the 2024 qualifiers—where Kenya exited winless and goalless—the 2025 campaign showcased remarkable improvement. The Junior Stars scored seven goals, earned two group-stage wins, and pushed deep into the tournament. Though the 2026 AFCON ticket proved elusive, the Junior Stars walk away with renewed belief, valuable experience, and clear signs of growth. With emerging talent and improved team cohesion, the future remains bright for Kenya’s U17 program.