Junior Stars skipper reveals two key factors that can drive Kenya to U17 AFCON
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 11.11.25. | 11:00
Omondi, who also turns out for Kariobangi Sharks, also praised head coach William Muluya and his technical staff for creating a competitive and structured environment
Kenya Under-17 and Ongata Rongai Senior High School captain Raphael Omondi, believes that discipline and teamwork will be the defining factors in the Junior Stars’ quest for a ticket to the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
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The Junior Stars are stepping up preparations for the CECAFA U17 AFCON qualifiers, set for in Ethiopia from November 15 to December 2, 2025.
Speaking from the team’s training camp, the former Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) right back expressed pride in making the final squad and confidence in the team’s ability to deliver.
“It is a great honor for me to make the final squad. It is not by luck; it is by God’s grace that I am here,” said Omondi.
“The camp is fantastic, and everything is on course. We have learned a lot, and there is a strong sense of discipline within the team. For instance, we have specific times to sleep and wake up, and everyone follows the rules. That level of discipline is what sets us apart.”
Omondi, who also turns out for Kariobangi Sharks, also praised head coach William Muluya and his technical staff for creating a competitive and structured environment.
“Our main aim is to qualify for the AFCON before thinking about anything else,” he added.
“The team is very competitive, and the technical staff has done a tremendous job preparing us. The squad is good, and we believe we can make the country proud.”
Earlier, coach Muluya shared similar optimism after unveiling his 25-man squad for the regional showpiece.
Kenya has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, and Rwanda, with two qualification slots up for grabs.
Despite assembling the team on short notice, Muluya believes his charges have the quality and determination to make an impact.
“The squad is basically what we came up with after two days of trying out players,” Muluya said.
"We could not include everyone; some were sitting for their final exams, but from what we have, this is the team we believe can compete and qualify."
Most of the Junior Stars players were scouted from schools and youth academies across the country.
According to Muluya, the technical bench has been working tirelessly to improve the players’ physical conditioning and tactical awareness.
“Many of these boys have not been active in competitive leagues beyond school games,” the tactician explained. “We have had to work on their fitness first, and now we are focusing on tactical development so that they can be complete players ready to compete internationally.”
Omondi will be assisted by Green Commandos forward Julius Ochieng, who will serve as the team’s vice-captain during the tournament in Ethiopia.
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