Kelly Madada is among the key names in Kenya’s 40-man provisional squad for the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania as coach Anthony Kimani begins preparations for the regional clash.
The AFC Leopards attacking midfielder is one of several promising youngsters named in the Emerging Stars squad, which also includes Celta Vigo midfielder Aldrine Kibet, Cadiz-based Jack Onganya and Nairobi United’s Kevin Wangaya. The qualifiers will offer Kenya a chance to begin their pursuit of a place at the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, with the competition also providing a pathway to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Madada, 20, has enjoyed a rapid rise since breaking into the Leopards’ first team. His performances during the 2025/26 SportPesa Premier League campaign helped Ingwe finish runners-up and also earned him further recognition at senior international level. The midfielder’s progress has been built on regular first-team exposure and a willingness to learn, having turned professional after making his name in school football with Shanderema Boys.
His inclusion gives Kimani an experienced option in midfield, particularly after the youngster made his senior Harambee Stars debut. He will now be expected to compete for a place in a U-23 side containing several players with both local and overseas experience. Madada says the Tanzania assignment presents a chance to prove themselves while pushing Kenya closer to their qualification ambitions.
“We are very happy to be part of this team because it is another opportunity to represent Kenya. We have a good group of players, and I believe we can achieve something special if we work together and remain focused,” Madada said.
He also sees the Olympic pathway as an added motivation for the Emerging Stars, with the players aware that a strong qualifying campaign could open the door to a much bigger stage. “Our target is to qualify for the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations. We know Tanzania will not be easy, but we have to believe in ourselves, prepare well and fight for a positive result in both matches,” he said.
Kibet is another player attracting attention after joining Spanish side Celta Vigo, while Onganya has continued his development at Cadiz. Wangaya, meanwhile, was a notable performer for Nairobi United during the 2025/26 season, with Kariobangi Sharks midfielder Humphrey Aroko also included.
The defensive department features Gor Mahia duo Bryton Onyona and Paul Ochuoga, alongside AFC Leopards pair Robinson Musungu and Brian Nyongesa. Nairobi United defender Wycliff Omondi is also part of the provisional team. Kimani has plenty of attacking options at his disposal, with Brooklyn Kazungu, Lawrence Okoth, Sigmunn Maina, Dan Omalla, Elly Owande, Emmanuel Osoro and Henry Omollo all named.
For Madada, the opportunity is also about continuing his personal development after his breakthrough season with AFC Leopards and subsequent senior international recognition. “Personally, I want to keep improving and use this opportunity to grow as a player. I also want to help the team with my experience from the senior team and give my best whenever I am on the pitch,” he said.
The midfielder knows competition for places will be intense, but believes that can only raise the standards within the squad. “I know there is competition for places in this squad because there are many talented players. For me, that is a good thing because it pushes everyone to work harder. I will continue working and trust the process,” Madada said.
His determination to maintain his upward trajectory was evident during his breakthrough season. “I won’t backslide. I will keep working to better my career,” Madada said. His confidence has also been evident throughout his rise, with the midfielder crediting his faith and belief in his ability for helping him handle the demands of professional football.
“I personally believe in myself. Also, I always put God first and live by faith,” he said during his breakthrough season. With Madada, Kibet, Onganya, Wangaya and Aroko among the notable names, Kimani has assembled a squad combining players from the domestic league with youngsters gaining experience abroad.
“The Olympics are also a big motivation. Every young player dreams of playing at that level, so we have to take these qualifiers seriously and give ourselves a chance of reaching Los Angeles,” Madada said.
The Tanzania tie will provide the first significant test of the Emerging Stars’ ability to turn that individual quality into a team capable of progressing in the U-23 AFCON qualification race. For Madada, the immediate objective is clear — help Kenya get past Tanzania while continuing a personal rise that has already taken him from school football to the Leopards first team and the senior national side. “My ambition is to keep moving forward, but also to make a contribution to the national team and help Kenya achieve its goals,” he said.
Goalkeepers: Caleb Kramer (ADO Den Haag), Mateo Buyu (Providence College), Collins Omondi (Sharks), Kevin Oduor (Kenya Police), Ibrahim Wanzala (Homeboyz)
Defenders: Shariff Majabe (TRA), Bryton Onyona (Gor Mahia), Amatton Samunya (KCB), Jackson Imbiakha (Unattached), Robinson Musungu (AFC Leopards), Brian Nyongesa (AFC Leopards), Collins Ochieng (Tusker), Miguel Osotsi (Kibera Soccer), Paul Ochuoga (Gor Mahia), Tony Musa (Murang’a Seal), Denzel Omollo (APS Bomet), Humphrey Obina (Shabana), Wycliff Omondi (Nairobi United)
Midfielders: Aldrine Kibet (Celta Vigo), Kevin Wangaya (Nairobi United), Kelly Madada (AFC Leopards), Humphrey Aroko (Rosengard), Andres Odhiambo (Enköpings SK), Irad Mshindi (Liepaja), Jack Onganya (Cadiz), Ateek Omar (Mathare United), Oliver Machaka (Kenya Police), Isaac Omweri (Mathare United), Faiz Opande (Kariobangi Sharks)
Forwards: Brooklyn Kazungu (MK Dons), Lawrence Okoth (Bandari), Sigmunn Maina (Shabana), Paul Osama (Enköpings SK), Memuse Siololo (Migori Youth), Paul Okoth (Gor Mahia), Collins Okello (Unattached), Dan Omalla (Nairobi United), Elly Owande (Migori Youth), Emmanuel Osoro (Power Dynamos), Thomas Omolle (Kakamega Homeboyz), Adrian Oloo (Ulinzi Stars), Henry Omollo (Mufulira Wanderers)
