Kenya U20 Aldrine Kibet to pit wits against Spain’s famed academies in youth finals
Harambee Stars prospect Aldrine Kibet is set to begin his Copa de Campeones Juvenil campaign as he and his Celta Vigo U19 teammates face off against Spain’s elite in the country’s most prestigious youth tournament.
The competition, which determines the overall national Under-19 champion, features the winners of all seven regional groups plus the best-performing runner-up.
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Celta Vigo qualified for the knockout finals after clinching the División de Honor Group 1 title in dominant fashion on April 19, 2026.
Path to the finals
Celta Vigo’s championship was secured with a massive 13-0 victory over SD Solares U19 at the A Madroa Stadium. Kibet played a decisive role in that clinching match, helping the club return to the top flight of Spanish youth football after a three-year absence.
The Harambee Stars ace delivered a stunning performance on the final day, bagging four goals in a span of 39 minutes to seal an emphatic individual display. This record-breaking feat set a new personal best for the youngster, surpassing his previous record of four goals in a single match set back in March.
The quest for the national crown begins this Saturday, May 9, 2026, as Celta Vigo faces Las Palmas in the quarterfinals. Should they advance, they will contend with other top-tier academies, including Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, Barcelona, and defending champions Real Betis.
Stakes
The tournament follows a knockout structure, beginning with two-legged, home-and-away quarterfinals. The four winners then advance to a central host city to compete in a “Final Four” format, consisting of single-match semifinals and a grand final.
The stakes remain high: beyond the prestige of the national title, the winner typically secures a coveted spot in the UEFA Youth League for the following season.
Celta Vigo heads into the tournament hoping Kibet can maintain his hot scoring streak to inspire the club to ultimate glory.
The cup glory will add to the Kenyan fast-rising profile months after the Harambee Stars U20 ace joined the Spanish academy in September 2025.
