Kenya's U23 football team, Emerging Stars, will begin their journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) today against Tanzania, in the first leg of the first-round qualifier, at the Nyayo National Stadium from 3 pm.Anthony Kimani’s side has camped for just over a week preparing for the regional showdown that will have the second leg played on 6 October.##NAJAVA_MECA_9985363##Tanzania heads into the clash with a clear preparation advantage, having been in camp for a considerably longer period than Kenya.Under coach Ahmad Ally, the Tanzanian delegation arrived in Nairobi on Saturday night.Kenya are bidding to qualify for the U23 AFCON finals for the first time, making the two-legged tie an important early test for Kimani and his charges.TACTICAL ANALYSIS: How Eritrea's midfield overloads frustrated Harambee Stars in 2027 AFCON QualifierCoach Kimani named his final squad for the qualifiers but will be without several players. Aldrine Kibet did not travel with the team, while Brian Ojok, Paul Ochuoga and Brighton Onyona are unavailable due to age eligibility concerns.The squad, however, features several players who were part of Kenya’s U20 team at last year’s AFCON tournament, bringing together a group with recent international tournament experience.Among those in the squad are: Collins Ochieng, Baron Ochieng, Joseph Bate, Telena Ochieng, Kevin Wangaya, Oliver Machaka, Kelly Madada, Andreas Odhiambo, Irad Mshindi, Lawrence Okoth and Hassan Beja.Kenya were drawn against Tanzania in the opening round during the qualifying draw held in Cairo, Egypt. The winner over the two legs will progress to the second round, where they will face Côte d’Ivoire.Should Kenya negotiate the opening rounds, they will have to overcome another hurdle in the final qualifying round, scheduled for 22 and 30 March 2027.Migori Youth wrap up Tanzanian pre-season tour with four-goal thriller against Pamba JijiThe road to Egypt is therefore a demanding one, with Kenya needing to navigate three qualifying rounds to secure a place among the eight teams that will compete at the finals.The 2027 U23 AFCON will be hosted by Egypt and will also serve as a pathway to the Olympic Games, adding further significance to Kenya’s campaign.
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