Harambee Stars under-18 boys started their contention for the coveted Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) tournament by trouncing Sudan 5-0.
In a match played at the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, Kisumu on Saturday Kenya opened the scoring through their on-form striker US-based Louis Ingavi in the 10th minute after a fast-paced and beautiful interplay in their opponent’s goalmouth.
Buoyed by the cheering fans who thronged the tie, Tyron Kariuki doubled the lead in the 18th minute by unleashing a sumptuous strike sending the Sudanese goalkeeper the wrong way.
The indefatigable young stars continued with their blistering display and were rewarded in the 35th minute when Spanish-based Captain Adrine Kibet slotted in their third goal.
In a rain-drenched match, Ingavi bagged a brace to wrap up the first half with the scoreline at 4-0.
The Sudanese were completely outwitted and outfoxed to mount a serious challenge against their hosts as they only managed very few shots on target.
In the 90th minute, Eddy Owanda drilled in a thunderous shot after a neat pass from Duncan Omalla to register the final fifth goal.
The Junior Stars tactician Salim Babu commended his lads for the sterling performance attributing it to their adequate preparations and support from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
“We have trained our sights on winning these Group stage matches and become number one. Assuredly, we will strategize our style and approaches in the quarters, semis and finals games,” Babu said.
He hinted that their secret was to score early goals and settle in the game against their neighbouring Sudanese opponents.
Kenya’s next match will be on Tuesday, November 28 at the same venue midday where they will meet top-title contenders Rwanda who pipped Somalia 1-0 in an earlier opening duel.
Ten-man Rwanda showed class when Sibomana Sitamba scored the solitary goal in the 46th minute of the second half after playing to a barren draw in the first half. Despite making numerous changes, the Somalis failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage.
The matches were graced by Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, FKF President Nick Mwendwa, CECAFA officials and other guests.
By Rolex Omondi