Zanzibar and South Sudan kick off regional tourney

The Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup kicks off on Wednesday afternoon with Zanzibar Heroes opening the two week long tournament with a 2pm kick off battle against South Sudan at the Nyayo National Stadium before paving way for hosts Harambee Stars to sweat it out with hot favourites Ethiopia at the same venue at 4pm.

The Heroes head into the match as strong favourites to bag the three points on offer putting into consideration their wealth of experience in the tournament.

In the last two editions, the islanders have made it to the semi finals and will be aiming to better that record.

Last year in Uganda, they were denied by a James Nandwa coached Harambee Stars who humbled them 2-1 in the semis en-route the finale, but fast forward to today, the dynamics have changed and as they begin their campaign Salum Nassor's side will be aiming at overcoming their semi final jinx.

DISTINCT ENTITIES

Though in Fifa recognised international matches, the Heroes play as one unit with Tanzania's Kilimanjaro Stars, in this tournament they have always played as two distinct entities.

Though considered the junior side of the two, the Heroes triumphed over Kilimanjaro Stars in the third place play offs last year and when they begin their campaign on Wednesday afternoon they will be angling for the three points and a flying start.

Nicknamed the Bright Stars, South Sudan on the other hand go into the match as green horns with little experience but will be keen to put up a strong fight if they are to navigate past the group stage.

A strong start will be key to their title dreams after being bundled out during the group phase last year and head coach Malis Soro Kibaso will heavily rely on forwards Francis Khamis, Ladule Laku and Edmond Amadeo to spearhead his attack.