Emerging Stars Set for Ivory Coast Test at Nyayo

Emerging Stars players during training at Nyayo Stadium on Tuesday as they prepare for the Ivory Coast qualifier. Photo: Courtesy.

Kenya’s Emerging Stars completed final preparations today ahead of their AFCON Under-23 and LA 2028 Olympic qualifier against Ivory Coast at Nyayo Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

Captain Kevin Wangaya said the squad is ready for the challenge. “This is another opportunity to showcase our talent. As captain, my role is to motivate the players. We are at home and we need the three points,” he said. Wangaya noted that several players have previous experience together at Under-18 and Under-20 level, adding that the team has already gelled well.

Forward Humphrey Aroko stressed personal preparation and collective responsibility. “This is a chance to represent the country and we will not take it for granted. We will enter the pitch as a united team and try to make a statement,” he said. Aroko described the opportunity to compete at this level as a privilege that continues to motivate the young players.

Emerging Stars after the final training session ahead of Wednesday’s clash. Photo: Courtesy.

Head coach Anthony Kimani described Ivory Coast’s Under-23 side as a strong test, comparable in quality to their senior team. “This is the level we aspire to. All the players in camp have the quality to represent the country well. Selecting the starting team is a good headache,” he said.

Kimani emphasised the value of home advantage while reminding the squad that the tie is played over two legs. “We must get a positive result in Nairobi, but we still have to finish the job in Ivory Coast,” he said. The only notable absentee is Irad, who is expected to join the camp later after club commitments. The rest of the squad is fit and available.

The Emerging Stars will look to the home crowd for support as they begin their campaign against regional opposition.

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