CAN U20: "We are ready," confirms Babu, Kenya's coach

Salim Babu, the coach of the Rising Stars of Kenya, exudes unwavering confidence just weeks before the kickoff of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN U20). The team is actively preparing before their journey to Egypt.

Kenya's U20 national team is gearing up for its very first participation in the CAN U20. The tournament will be held from May 26 to 18, 2025, in Egypt. For several weeks, the Rising Stars have been undergoing a training camp under the guidance of the Kenyan technician. This Wednesday, April 9, the group played a friendly match against Police FC, the current leader of the Kenyan Premier League (1-1).

In an interview given after the match, coach Salim Babu confirmed that his team, though new to this level, is fully prepared to face the continent's best nations. With meticulous preparation, emerging talents, and a clear ambition, the Rising Stars are determined to upset the odds.

"We are ready. The boys showed great competitiveness today. There are many positives to take from this match and the others we have played. If we had to play our first match tomorrow, I'm certain we would be ready and strive to get the three points," said Kenya's U20 coach.

Babu's ambition doesn't stop at the CAN U20. He is also aiming for a qualification for the U20 World Cup by finishing among the top four teams in the continental tournament.

"Once we finalize the team, the camp in Morocco will focus on the finer details. The hardest part is done. The boys have trained well and shown great commitment. Now it's about fine-tuning our approach for the first match," concluded coach Babu.

Lydiane N'Po |

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Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.