- KCB have been on a bad run in the league
- They edged out MOFA in the first round
- Police play Mombasa Stars in the late kick off
KCB FC is eyeing a quarter-final slot in the FKF MozzartBet Cup as they take on Bidco United in the round of 16 at the Police Sacco Stadium.
KCB advanced to the round of 16 after securing a crucial 1-0 win over Michael Olunga Foundation Academy (MOFA) in the round of 32 back in February. Last year, the Bankers were forced out of the competition after suffering a 2-0 defeat against Tusker United in the quarters.
Speaking ahead of the match, KCB FC Assistant Coach Elvis Ayany noted that the team has been prepping for the encounter, which will be their first competitive match after the international break.
“We have to secure the win. We have had enough time to reset and recharge and so we are hoping to go all out in the coming clash. The majority of our players are fit, so I believe we only have one job to do, win and advance to the next stage,” the coach said.
The Bankers are currently patched ninth with 33 points from 24 matches played so far.
“We had a rough start this year, but we are glad that we are finally finding our footing. In our last game, we secured a crucial win over Shabana which was a motivation for us, and we aim to keep on that trend, both in the Shield Cup and the Premier League,” adds the tactician.
The KCB squad has been boosted by the return of their captain, Michael Mutinda, who has been sidelined since May 2023 after suffering a torn ACL. The defensive midfielder is currently training with the team but is expected to make his full return later in the season.
KCB welcome back Mutinda
KCB players celebrate their goal against AFC Leopards during a past match
“Michael has been an integral part of the squad, and we have really missed him, both his experience and his leadership. He is back training on his fitness, and we are in check to make sure he is up to the test before he steps back into the field again.” Ayani added.
“It has been a tough and long period, but I am happy that I am back to training. The team has been supportive during this period, and I look forward to getting back and helping them on the ground.” Michael Mutinda noted.
The team will miss the services of winger Kennedy Owino, who has suffered a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury. He has undergone surgery, which will keep him out of the squad for the better part of the season.
The two teams are set to meet again on April 6 in the FKF Premier League.
Meanwhile in the late kick off at the Police Sacco Stadium, Police FC will take on Mombasa Stars, as they also eye a good run in in the Cup.
Police seek first major trophy
Abud Omar celebrates his second goal for Kenya Police FC against Ulinzi Stars
Police have never won a major trophy and are seeking their first, with an eye on Continental football as well.
Head coach Salim Babu says they will take the match seriously despite playing against a second tier side, and will put in a strong team to battle for victory.
“We cannot underrate anyone in football. We have very strong teams even in the lower leagues and we have seen Premier League teams being eliminated. So we have to take this match very seriously,” said the coach.
He added; “We have prepared well as a team and put everything right for this game. We are motivated to try and win and play in continental football next season. This is a chance for us to win a trophy and we will give our best.”
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