CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup: Kenya Emerging Stars face South Sudan in play-off

Kenya’s Emerging Stars will this afternoon be in action against South Sudan in the 3/4th play-off at the ongoing CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.

The playoff match was initially meant to take place tomorrow, but a change was made by CECAFA and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the tournament.

Simon James Yor, South Sudan’s head coach told Cecafaonline.com that this is another chance to expose his players to football at a competitive level. “We are happy to get this far in the tournament and want to revenge against Kenya who beat us in the group stage,” added Yor.

The Kenya Emerging Stars’ coach Stanley Khayo Okumbi said he will reotate his team for this match against South Sudan. “Despite not getting to the final, I am happy with the progress of the players,” added Okumbi. In the group stage Kenya defeated South Sudan 2-0.

Meanwhile, hosts Ethiopia finished in 7th place after defeating guest side DR Congo 2-1 in a classification match played on Wednesday. Uganda also defeated Eritrea 2-1 to finish 5th.

Asrat Tonjo Yoylo and Chernet Gusa Beshal netted for Ethiopia, while Kimvuidi Kiekie Karim scored for the DR Congo team. In the second game Najib Iga and Steven Mukwala gave Uganda a 2-0 lead before Yonathan Goytom pulled one back with few minutes to full time.

The final of the CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup between Tanzania and Burundi will be played on July 30th.