Prior to the beginning of the CECAFA cup, Kenya head coach, Frenchman Henri Michel announced that the CECAFA cup was of lower priority to him. He wanted to focus on the CHAN tournament match against Burundi on December 14. The national team of local based players was thus split into two teams. The “A team” under Michel was to prepare for CHAN while coach James Nandwa would lead the CECAFA team whoch comprised mostly Under 23 players.

Not much was expected from the Stars considering their lack of preparation and relative experience. There was also the fact that Kenya has played poorly in this tournament in the recent past.

However Nandwa proved a pragmatic and astute coach adapting his tactics well to each game while playing good football. “Kenya B” went on to beat Ethiopia, South Sudan, Malawi and Zanzibar on their way to the final.

Against hosts Uganda in the final, Kenya gave a very good account of themselves. Uganda fielding their strongest team and playing at home still found the going difficult against Kenya. However a combination of bad luck put paid to Kenya’s efforts.

“Stars were denied two penalties after Rama Salim was fouled in the box and when a Ugandan defender handled in the box. The quality of officiating has been poor throughout the tournament,” Sam Nyamweya said.

With Uganda leading 1-0, Kenya fought back and grabbed an equalizer via Edwin Lavatsa in the 86th minute, only to ceoncede a late goal due to a lapse in concentration. A full strength Kenya team under Nandwa might have won this tournament. This is especially true on defence where Uganda scored twice due to defensive errors.

All in all it was a good outing for Kenya with young players like Edwin Lavatsa, David Cheche, Mike Baraza, Rama Salim, Anthony Kimani getting to showcase their skills and gain experience.

Coach Nandwa’s performance will have left many wondering whether the excessive amount of money being splashed on Henri Michel was worthwhile.