Kenya Police FC head coach Salim Babu expects a flawless win when his charges clash with Sofapaka on Saturday in the FKF Cup at the Dandora Stadium.
“We're aiming for nothing less than a win on Saturday. Every game we step into is a final for us,” Babu emphasized.
Their last encounter was in a league match at Police Sacco Stadium over the weekend, where they won 2-1 over the same team (Sofapaka) courtesy of two spot-kicks by Tito Okello.
Babu emphasised that they're leaving nothing to chance as they prepare to face Batoto Ba Mungu.
“We won't underestimate our opponent. Our preparations have been meticulous. We've been grinding since Monday and we'll be more than ready,” he assured.
Babu, also the National U20 coach, highlighted the team's high morale following their 3-1 triumph over Mombasa Stars in the round of 16.
“The players' morale is high. Our previous results against Mombasa Stars have given them the drive to go all the way in the tournament,” he stated.
Securing a spot in continental football is the squad’s primary goal as Babu reveals their ambition to make a maiden appearance at the CAF Confederations Cup.
“Every player's dream is to play at the Confederations Cup. Continental football is our target,” he added.
Meanwhile, Sofapaka’s coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno has issued a warning, stating that Saturday’s clash will be a different challenge from their last encounter and that the Police shouldn’t expect an easy victory.
“It will be a different ball game from the one we played against them in the league last weekend. Knockout matches are different from league matches. The team that wants it more carries the day,” Otieno stated.
He also highlighted Sofapaka's character in pulling through tough matches, citing their last two victories in the cup.
“We had a tough run-up to today. The teams' character has been evident from our previous matches with Silibwet and Bungoma Stars. In both matches, we came from behind to secure a win through penalties,” he stated.
Batoto Ba Mungu played Silibwet in the round of 32 at the Police Sacco Stadium on February 24, where they came from behind to tie the game 2-2 at full time to push the match to penalties. They would later on win 5-3 on spot kicks, securing a slot in the round of 16.
In their round of 16 match against Bungoma Stars, Sofapaka also came from behind to push the match to penalties after a 2-2 score at full time They won 5-4 on spot kicks to proceed to the quarter-finals.
Otieno stressed the team’s readiness to fight for a win, even if it means going to penalties.
“Come Saturday, we will try to improve more on our character and try to win the game in the regular 90 minutes. However, should the match stretch to penalties, we are prepared,” he noted.
Midfield maestro Humphry Mieno called on Sofapaka fans to rally behind the team, acknowledging the challenge posed by the Police.
“I urge our fans to come and support us. Police have a good team and they are tough opponents. It won’t be easy and so the 12th man will play a vital role in our success on Saturday,” Mieno stated.
