Kenya's Rising Stars have been urged to go all out for a win against Nigeria’s Flying Eagles in their final Group B clash at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, Soccernet.ng reports.
The two sides are set to meet on Wednesday, May 7, at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo in what promises to be a decisive encounter for both nations.
Nigeria, second in the group with four points, need only a draw to book their place in the quarter-finals, while a victory could send them top and potentially earn a more favourable draw in the knockout stages.
Kenya, by contrast, are playing for pride. The Rising Stars have already lost both of their group matches — a spirited 3-2 defeat to Morocco followed by a 3-1 loss to Tunisia — and sit bottom of Group B without a point.
“Nigeria will be under pressure” – Kenya urged to upset Flying Eagles in U20 AFCON Group B finale
Despite their slim chances of progression, former Gor Mahia coach and Kenya Football Coaches Association (KEFOCA) secretary Bob Oyugi has called on the players to approach the game with confidence and freedom.
“Against Nigeria, they should just play and enjoy the game,” Oyugi told Flashscore.
“Nigeria will be under pressure to beat our young Kenyans because they want to qualify. We look forward to finishing the game with Nigeria with a win, and with proper psychological preparations. We look forward to watching the creativity and artistry of our future players.”
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Kenya, making their debut appearance at the U20 AFCON, have shown flashes of attacking promise.
Against Morocco, Salim Babu’s men twice took the lead before being edged out in a thrilling contest. The Rising Stars also shipped three goals in their defeat against Tunisia on matchday two.
Kenya will need to show greater defensive discipline and composure to upset a Nigerian side boasting seven U20 continental titles.
Morocco currently lead the group on goal difference ahead of Nigeria, with both sides level on four points. Tunisia, with three points, remain in the hunt for a knockout spot, while Kenya need an improbable win and a mathematical miracle to have any hope.
