The Kenyan Deaf U23 National Team continues to make history at the inaugural U23 World Deaf Football Championships in Zlatibor, Serbia, proudly representing the nation on the global stage against some of the strongest young Deaf football teams in the world. Organized by the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD), the championship marks a major milestone for international Deaf football, providing a prestigious platform for emerging talent to compete at the highest level.

Drawn into a highly competitive Group A alongside Serbia, Türkiye, Japan and Ukraine, Kenya embraced the challenge with courage, discipline and determination throughout the group-stage fixtures. Despite difficult preparations before the tournament, the squad showed strong character and continued to compete with pride in every match. 

Kenya opened the tournament with an impressive performance against hosts Serbia, securing a commanding 13-0 victory.  The result demonstrated the attacking quality, tactical organization and confidence within the Kenyan side as they announced themselves strongly in the competition. 

The second fixture saw Kenya face a well-structured Türkiye side in a tightly contested encounter. Türkiye eventually claimed a 5-1 victory, but Kenya continued to show resilience and attacking intent throughout the match, refusing to back down against experienced opposition.



One of the standout moments of the tournament came in Kenya’s clash against reigning Japan team. The match was played at an intense tempo and showcased high-quality football from both teams. Japan narrowly edged the contest 1-0 in what proved to be one of Kenya’s strongest and most disciplined performances of the championship. The Kenyan players displayed excellent defensive shape, composure in transition and tremendous fighting spirit throughout the ninety minutes. The encounter highlighted the team’s growing competitiveness on the international stage. 

Kenya then faced Ukraine in another demanding fixture, with Ukraine securing a 7-2 victory in an open and energetic match. Kenya continued to push forward and showed attacking ambition until the final whistle, reflecting the positive mentality within the squad.

While results are only one part of the story, the team’s performances in Serbia have shown significant promise for the future of deaf football in Kenya. Competing in the first-ever U23 World Deaf Football Championship is already a historic achievement, and the players have represented the country with honour, professionalism and determination throughout the tournament.

The squad also deserves credit for adapting quickly under challenging circumstances ahead of the tournament. Even without extensive local preparations and after difficult travel schedules, the players remained focused and committed to giving their best for the badge and for the country. 


Kenya now shifts focus to the placement matches as the team continues battling for a strong finish and the opportunity to compete for 5th position in the championship standings.  The experience gained at this level will undoubtedly play a major role in the development of the players and the growth of deaf football back home.

The team also extends sincere appreciation to the Government of Kenya and all well-wishers who supported the journey to Serbia. Their contribution has made it possible for these young athletes to compete on the world stage and inspire the next generation of Deaf footballers across the country.


watch the matches:

https://www.youtube.com/live/jeu4t9GIhKA?si=ns2YlRNtY79LwVYP

https://www.youtube.com/live/tvasmQyxX1o?si=PUdkFh0vJKnmV4CG

https://www.youtube.com/live/BkiFZBAXtLs?si=mZ1ZLOoKpeIuoT0C

https://www.youtube.com/live/2s1XlkomgVo?si=x-VonTmcOz5o_Dah