Junior Stars Boss William Muluya Reveals Key Focus Areas in Training as Kenya Targets U17 AFCON Qualification

Junior Starlets Boss William Muluya has revealed what he has been working on in training ahead of the side's departure to Ethiopia for the upcoming U17 AFCON qualifiers.

Kenya U17 head coach William Muluya has revealed the main areas his technical team has been emphasizing in training as the Junior Stars step up preparations for the upcoming CECAFA U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers set to kick off later this month in Ethiopia.

Speaking during a training session in Nairobi, Muluya explained that the team’s work since selection has been focused on building chemistry and tactical cohesion, key elements he believes will determine Kenya’s success in the regional tournament.

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We Are Working on Tactical Nitty-Gritties

“We have worked hard after selecting the players, focusing mainly on their technical ability, because tactical discipline is something the coaches can develop,” said Muluya.

 “We’ve been trying to build a bond in play — to connect the positions and individuals, and find out where they can work best under different circumstances.”

The Junior Stars coach added that his side’s preparations are guided by a strong belief that they can qualify for the 2026 U17 AFCON, emphasising that unity, self-belief, and structure will be critical to achieving that goal.

“This is a race where there will only be one winner. We have to believe in ourselves and play until the last day of the tournament,” he continued. “It would be an honour to qualify for the AFCON, and we are confident we can do the job.”

Muluya, who last week announced his 25-man squad for the qualifiers, noted that the ultimate objective is to reach the final — the stage that guarantees qualification to the continental showpiece.

“At least the team should play until the last day, and if possible, win the trophy,” he said. “Winning the CECAFA tournament is the surest way of booking a place in next year’s AFCON.”

What Next For Junior Stars?

The Junior Stars have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Ethiopia, Rwanda, South Sudan, and Somalia. Kenya will begin their campaign on November 18 against Somalia before facing Rwanda, South Sudan, and Ethiopia in their subsequent fixtures.

Earlier, defender Raphael Omondi praised the team’s discipline and structure, noting that the camp environment has been vital in building focus.

“There is so much discipline instilled in camp — from training routines to rest schedules,” Omondi said. 

“Our main aim is to qualify for the AFCON before thinking about anything else. The technical team has done a tremendous job, and the squad is very competitive.”

With confidence high in the camp, Muluya’s charges are aiming not just to participate, but to compete fiercely for qualification — a goal that would mark a significant step forward for Kenya’s youth football development.