Nyayo Stadium to Host First Leg of Kenya’s U23 AFCON Qualifier

Nyayo National Stadium will be the venue for Kenya’s first-leg encounter against Ivory Coast as the Emerging Stars continue their campaign to reach the 2027 U23 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Egypt.

The match is scheduled for Wednesday, November 11, with Kenya set to travel to Abidjan for the decisive return fixture six days later.

The second leg will take place at Stade Félix-Houphouët-Boigny on Tuesday, November 17.

Kenya head coach Anthony Kimani has named a provisional 37-man squad for the two encounters, drawing players from both domestic clubs and teams abroad.

Celta Vigo forward Aldrine Kibet headlines the new additions after missing the previous round against Tanzania while sorting out his work permit in Spain.

FC Rosengård midfielder Humphrey Aroko has also been included after recovering from injury, while Jack Steel of St. Bonaventure is another fresh face.

The squad further features Emmanuel Osoro of Power Dynamos, Javan Ochieng of Hickory, Colin Akeno of Manglerud Star and two goalkeepers from the Kenyan league, Bernard Jairo of Nairobi United and Kevin Oduor of Kenya Police.

Kimani’s side secured their place in this round by eliminating Tanzania 5-4 on aggregate.

They will need to overcome Ivory Coast over the two matches to remain in contention for a place at the continental tournament.

The winner will progress to the final qualifying round, where Tunisia or Benin will stand between them and a place at the 2027 finals.

NewsClock feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com