Emerging Stars thrash Tanzania 4-1 in AFCON U-23 qualifier

Kenya’s Under-23 football team, the Emerging Stars, have taken a commanding advantage in their AFCON Under-23 qualifier against Tanzania after a 4-1 first-leg victory at Nyayo Stadium. Kenya got off to a flying start, with striker Paul Osama opening the scoring after just 78 seconds. The Emerging Stars doubled their lead just before half-time, Bandari FC striker Lawrence Okoth finding the back of the net. Captain Kevin Wangaya made it 3-0 in the 51st minute after winning possession from the Tanzanian defence near the centre of the pitch. Tanzania were handed a lifeline three minutes later when a handball in the box resulted in a penalty, which they converted to make it 3-1. Second-half substitute Kelly Madada of AFC Leopards restored Kenya’s three-goal cushion with a superb strike from just outside the box. The 4-1 victory gives the Emerging Stars a significant advantage heading into the second leg in Dar es Salaam on October 6. The aggregate winner will face Ivory Coast in the second round of the qualifiers.