Former Gor Mahia coach Bob Oyugi has urged Kenya’s U20 national team, the Rising Stars, to take pride in their performances at the ongoing 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations despite suffering two straight defeats in Group B.
Making their debut appearance at the tournament in Egypt, the Rising Stars lost narrowly to Morocco (3-2) and Tunisia (3-1).
Despite the setbacks, Oyugi praised the team’s spirited performances and encouraged the players to hold their heads high.
“So far, so good. Our young men have played their best to their level… they should stand tall and be proud of what they have tried to achieve in Egypt,” Oyugi told Flashscore.
In both matches, Kenya showed promise, scoring first and displaying attacking verve, with Lawrence Ouma and Hassan Beja registering goals.
However, defensive lapses cost them against experienced opposition. Oyugi highlighted the close contest with Morocco as a sign of growth in Kenyan football, praising the tactical awareness and determination the team displayed.
“They never panicked despite playing one of the tournament’s previous winners… to score first, concede, but again recover quickly… clearly shows that Kenya’s football is on the right track,” he said.
Oyugi, also the secretary of KEFOCA, appealed to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to invest in the team’s future, calling for sustained international exposure and development.
“FKF should not neglect this team… they need to play with the best out there and must be maintained,” he stated.
Kenya faces Nigeria in their final group match on Wednesday, May 7, at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo.
With qualification chances slim, Oyugi encouraged the team to express themselves freely, urging them to enjoy the moment and showcase their potential.
