Kenyas junior team in must win face off with Nigeria

After registering a poor start in their opening match of the Africa Youth Championship in Algiers, Algeria, Kenya’s junior men hockey team will be out to atone for the misses when they take on Nigeria this afternoon from 4pm (East African Time).

The Kenyan side fell 2-1 in the hands of defending champion Zambia yesterday and is acutely aware that beating the Nigerians will be pivotal in reviving their dream of qualifying for the World Championship set for Argentina next year.

At the same time, team manager Michael Malunga has decried the team’s wasteful in their first match, promising an improved performance this afternoon.

“My boys played well although they wasted a lot of chances, we have rectified that mistake and I believe we will get good result as we face Nigeria.”

A top two finish in their pool will see the team secure a semi-final berth to possibly face off with South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe or hosts Algeria.

“It is our objective to qualify for the Youth Olympic Games by winning the African title, let our fans remain calm,” said Malungu.

One of the two finalists will secure a ticket to Argentina in October for the Youth Olympics. However, the top three teams will have a shot at the World Championships in 2019.