The FKF Cup continues to captivate football fans across Kenya, with several exciting matches lined up, including thrilling encounters featuring top clubs like Gor Mahia, Shabana FC, and Kakamega Homeboyz. These clubs, having enjoyed strong performances in the league, will now look to continue their cup runs against lower-tier sides, who are eager to make their mark and create upsets.
Gor Mahia, the reigning FKF Premier League champions, will take on the ambitious lower-tier team Githurai Allstars at Dandora Stadium on Sunday. Having emerged victorious with a 3-0 win over KSG Ogopa in the preliminary round, Gor Mahia will aim to assert their dominance in this competition. Head coach Sinisa Mihic is expected to rotate his squad, keeping in mind their upcoming league fixtures, as they chase down Kenya Police, the current league leaders, and second-placed Tusker. Despite the gulf in class between the two sides, Githurai Allstars will be looking to cause an upset, especially after a solid 4-2 win over Maroon Stars in the previous round. Cup competitions often throw up surprises, and the Allstars will be hoping to use their underdog status to their advantage.
In another exciting encounter at Gusii Stadium, Shabana FC will be keen to continue their cup campaign with a statement win. The Kisii-based side, fresh from a resounding 6-1 victory over Solian City in the previous round, will face Plantech FC, a team that is looking to prove its worth in the competition. Shabana’s passionate home support at Gusii Stadium will be a major advantage for them as they take on a side that secured its spot in the round of 32 with a dramatic 4-2 penalty win over Kipchimat after a 0-0 draw in regular time. Plantech will be aiming to frustrate Shabana and capitalize on any lapses in concentration, but the Kisii side will be determined to secure a convincing victory in front of their home fans.
Kakamega Homeboyz will also be in action, facing the relatively unknown Samitsi FC, a team that has been making waves in the lower divisions. Samitsi FC, despite being a lesser-known side, have proven their mettle in this tournament, having secured an impressive 5-0 win over Turi FC in the previous round. Their disciplined defense and quick counter-attacks will pose a significant challenge for the more experienced Homeboyz team. Kakamega Homeboyz will need to be at their best to ensure they progress in the competition, as Samitsi FC could be a tough opponent if given the chance to exploit any weaknesses.
In other key fixtures across the country, Kibera Soccer will face Ishiara FC at Dandora Stadium, while Kakamega Veterans will meet Kapenguria United at Mumias Complex. The action will continue at Embu Stadium, where Bidco United will take on Far East United, and Fortune Sacco will face Murang’a Seal. The SportPesa Arena in Murang’a will host the clash between Ulinzi Stars and Jumbo T FC, as teams from across the country battle it out for a place in the next round.
The FKF Cup is always full of surprises, with lower-tier teams often putting up strong performances against more established sides. As the competition heats up, fans can expect more thrilling matches, upsets, and passionate displays of football across the country.