Abakari Matano in the Kenya U-15 national team kit
Abakari Matano in Kenya colours.

One of our own has flown the flag for Kenya. Sikri Sports Academy footballer Abakari Matano was named as a defender in the Kenya U-15 Boys' National Team (Harambee Stars U15) final squad for the 2026 CAF African Schools Football Championship CECAFA qualifiers.

Head coach Patrick Nyale named the 20-player squad on 28 August 2026 for the qualifiers in Kigali, Rwanda, held from 3 to 5 September. You can read the official announcement and full squad list on the Football Kenya Federation website.

Abakari didn't just make the squad: he started every one of Kenya's matches at the qualifiers, including the game against Tanzania.

Kenya U-15 starting XI against Tanzania at the 2026 CAF African Schools Championship CECAFA qualifiers, with Abakari Matano named
Kenya U-15 starting XI against Tanzania, with Abakari named. Graphic: Harambee Stars.
Kenya U-15 Boys' National Team lining up in their green match kit at the CECAFA qualifiers in Kigali Kenya U-15 Boys' National Team lining up in orange and green tracksuits at the CECAFA qualifiers in Kigali
The Kenya U-15 Boys' National Team (Harambee Stars U15) line up at the CECAFA qualifiers in Kigali, Rwanda.

It is a proud moment for the whole Black Eagles family. Abakari's call-up is a reward for his hard work, discipline and commitment on the training pitch in Oyugis, and it shows that talent nurtured here in Homa Bay County can reach the national stage.

Big Up, Coach Eddy

A special shout-out goes to our coach, Coach Eddy, whose guidance and dedication have been key to Abakari's development. This milestone belongs to the coaching team as much as to the player.

Soaring Higher

Starting every game for your country at just 15 is only the beginning. We are proud of Abakari and excited for what comes next. Rise together, soar higher, Black Eagles!

See Abakari's player profile. Want to follow in his footsteps? Explore our football programme or get in touch via our contact page.