Kick off Dates
The much-anticipated 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) CECAFA U17 qualifiers will kick off on Saturday, December 14, 2024, in Uganda, promising thrilling action as eight teams battle for a spot in the continental tournament. Kenya’s Junior Stars, under head coach Salim Babu, are set to open their campaign against South Sudan on Sunday, December 15, at the Nakivubo Hamz Stadium.
Group Stage Fixtures
Kenya has been placed in Group B alongside defending champions Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan. The Junior Stars’ matches are scheduled as follows:
- Sunday, 15 December 2024: Kenya vs. South Sudan (2:00 PM, Nakivubo Hamz Stadium)
- Wednesday, 18 December 2024: Kenya vs. Somalia
- Saturday, 21 December 2024: Kenya vs. Sudan
Group A Opponents
Group A comprises hosts Uganda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Burundi, with all group matches being played in a round-robin format. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
Venue Details and Match Schedule
The majority of the matches will take place at the Nakivubo Hamz Stadium, with only two games scheduled at the St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende. Each matchday will feature doubleheaders, with Ethiopia and Burundi set to kick off the tournament on December 14, followed by Uganda’s clash against Tanzania later that evening.
Knockout Stage Format
The semi-finals are scheduled for Tuesday, December 24, at Nakivubo Hamz Stadium:
- Semi-final 1: Winner of Group B vs. Runner-up of Group A (2:00 PM)
- Semi-final 2: Winner of Group A vs. Runner-up of Group B (5:00 PM)
The tournament will conclude on Friday, December 27, with the third-place playoff at 1:00 PM, followed by the grand final at 4:00 PM, both at Nakivubo Hamz Stadium.
Path to AFCON
The two teams that reach the finals will secure their spots in the 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations as CECAFA’s representatives.
Kenya’s Ambition
Kenya will look to build on their promising youth football development under Salim Babu. Facing defending champions Somalia will be a stern test, but the Junior Stars are determined to make a mark and qualify for the continental tournament.