This archive report was first published on 3 December 2019.
On a gloomy Monday, December 2, 2019, Kenya's U16 football team faced off against Zimbabwe in the Copa Africa Championships at Mpesa Academy in Kiambu County. The match marked the beginning of the tournament, and Kenya's performance was far from impressive.
Defending champions Kenya kicked off the tournament on a low note, losing 3-1 to Zimbabwe in the opening match. The match took place in Thika, and the hosts were represented by coastal school Serani Boys.
Kenya's custodian, Ismale Tole, was left helpless as Zimbabwe's Luke Musiriki broke the deadlock with a thunderous volley just after the half-hour mark. The hosts managed to restore parity through skipper Marcus Odhiambo, but Musiriki's two quick-fire strikes before the hour mark sealed the win for Zimbabwe.
The Kenyan team will be seeking an upturn in fortunes when they face Mozambique in their next match, hoping to revitalize their campaign.
Meanwhile, Uganda made a statement in the second match of the day, thrashing Namibia 11-2 in a Group C match.
The Copa Africa Championships, which attracted 12 African countries, will conclude on Thursday, December 5, 2019.
