'We will set the tone' - Rising Stars coach Salim Babu warns ahead of crucial clash with Tanzania

Rising Stars head coach has cautioned hosts Tanzania ahead of their crunch showdown in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) U-20 qualifiers for the CECAFA zone.

The fixtures are scheduled for October 6-20, 2024, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania with Kenya poised to play their opening match on Sunday, October 6 against the Charles Mukwasa-led side.

"We’ve prepared well, and the boys are ready. The first game is critical, especially since we’re facing the hosts, which will be tough, but I believe our performance will set the tone,” said Babu as per Mozzart Sport.

“The players understand me, and continuity makes things easier. It’s a good motivation for me as a coach.”

Kenya's Rising Stars have been pooled in Group A alongside Tanzania, Sudan, Rwanda and Djibouti.

 After Tanzania Kenya will take on Rwanda and Djibouti and eventually closing off their group stage matches against Sudan.

The tournament's finalists will automatically be awarded a qualifying spot for the 2025 U20 AFCON.

Babu's final squad for the tournament features headliners in last year's U-18 CECAFA tournament like Amos Wanjala, Aldrine Kibet Louise Ingavi and Tyron Kariuki.