Despite a valiant effort that saw them reach the final of the Cecafa Women’s Champions League Qualifiers, Kenya Women Premier League (KWPL) champions Police Bullets fell short at the last hurdle, losing 1-0 to Ethiopia’s Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) on Thursday in Addis Ababa. The loss ended their hopes of making their debut in the CAF Women’s Champions League, but Head Coach Beldine Odemba remains proud of her team’s performance.
Odemba, who has been pivotal in steering Police Bullets to the top of Kenyan women’s football, praised her squad for their remarkable journey to the final. “When we reached the final, we smelled the title and, most importantly, the slot to play in the Champions League. We had really worked hard to qualify, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. Nevertheless, I’m happy for the strides we’ve made as a club,” she remarked after the final.
The match against CBE was a closely contested affair, with both teams showcasing tactical discipline and determination. However, a solitary goal from the Ethiopian side proved to be the difference. For Police Bullets, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, particularly given the promising performances that had seen them dispatch other contenders en route to the final.
Odemba’s leadership and tactical acumen did not go unnoticed, as she was named Coach of the Tournament. Reflecting on this accolade, she was quick to attribute the success to her team. “I attribute the accolade to teamwork. The players, the technical bench, and everyone else involved in the club played a role,” she noted. Odemba’s humility and recognition of her team’s collective efforts underscore the unity and collaborative spirit within Police Bullets, a quality that has been central to their recent successes.
Despite the heartbreak of missing out on a historic Champions League spot, Odemba is already rallying her team to shift their focus back to the domestic front. Police Bullets are the reigning KWPL champions, having won the title for the first time last season in an unbeaten campaign. As the new league season looms, Odemba is determined that her team will not rest on their laurels. “When we get back, the league will almost be starting. We will not rest as we aim to defend our title. The momentum we’ve had here in Ethiopia will help us do well back home when the league kicks off,” she emphasized.
One of the standout performers for Police Bullets during the qualifiers was goalkeeper Annedy Kundu, who was deservedly voted the best goalkeeper of the tournament. Kundu’s stellar performances between the posts were crucial in keeping Police Bullets in contention throughout the competition. Her recognition is a testament to the defensive solidity that the team has built under Odemba’s guidance.
For Police Bullets, the experience gained from competing at this level will undoubtedly be invaluable as they look to build on their recent achievements. The team’s journey to the Cecafa final has not only enhanced their reputation but has also provided a solid foundation upon which they can continue to grow and challenge for more honors in the future.
As they return to Kenya, Police Bullets will be buoyed by the lessons learned and the determination to make amends for their near miss in Ethiopia. Odemba’s leadership will once again be crucial as they set their sights on retaining the KWPL title and pushing for more success on the continental stage. Despite the disappointment of the Cecafa final loss, the future looks bright for Police Bullets under the stewardship of Beldine Odemba.
