AFCON Under-17 Qualifiers: Kenya fall to Ethiopia, eye semis redemption

Kenya’s Rising Stars sailed through to the semis finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Under- 17 Qualifiers despite losing 0-1 to Ethiopia in their final Group ‘A’ game staged at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Despite the defeat, Kenya’s U-17 Stars still proceed to the last four as runners-up. Their earlier results, a 1-1 draw against Somalia and a 2-1 victory over Rwanda were enough to secure them the spot, and will now face Tanzania, the top side from Group ‘B’, in the semis.

The Ethiopians got the breakthrough when forward Dawit Kasaw broke the deadlock, slotting the decisive goal in the 63rd minute.

The opening half was tightly contested, with both teams exhibiting disciplined defensive organization.

The semi-final showdown will be high-stakes, as Kenya seeks redemption and another shot at continental qualification. With a ticket to the AFCON finals still up for grabs, the young stars have to give their all against their opponents.