Kenya’s Junior Stars kept their hopes of reaching the semi-finals alive after securing a solid 2–0 victory over South Sudan in the ongoing Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations Cecafa qualifiers in Addis Ababa.
The young Kenyan side started the match on an impressive note, with Derick Khatete breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute after sustained early pressure. Despite several advances from South Sudan, Kenya maintained their lead for the larger part of the game, showing composure and discipline at the back.
As the clock wound down, Trevor Nassasiro doubled Kenya’s advantage in the 89th minute, sealing a crucial win that keeps the team firmly in contention for a spot in the knockout stage.
In Group A, hosts Ethiopia have already booked their place in the semi-finals and continue to lead the pool with seven points. Kenya follow closely in second place with four points, while Somalia are third with three. Kenya opened their campaign with a 1–1 draw against Somalia before edging Rwanda 2–1 in a spirited comeback on Friday at the Abebe Bikila Stadium.
In Group B, Tanzania lead with a perfect nine points, trailed by Uganda on six and Burundi with three.
The Junior Stars will now be aiming to maintain their winning momentum as they head into the final round of group-stage fixtures, hoping to secure their passage to the semi-finals.