Kakamega Homeboyz head coach John Barasa has vowed to claim Shabana's scalp in their FKF Cup Round of 16 encounter at Kenyatta Stadium, Kisumu, on Saturday.
Barasa will leverage recent victories and robust player dynamics to inspire his charges in what promises to be a thrilling battle of Kenyan Premier League titans.
On Thursday, Barasa articulated his belief in the capabilities of his players, urging them to harness their current form to overcome their Kisii-based opponents as they frantically grope for a return to continental football.
The seasoned gaffer is convinced the morale has been buoyed by a recent triumph — a hard-fought 2-1 victory over AFC Leopards, an outcome that reignited the flames of ambition that had flickered in previous phases of the season.
The legacy of his predecessor, Patrick Odhiambo, looms large, and the desire to replicate past successes fuels his determination.
"I understand the weight of expectation that rests upon my shoulders as I guide my players in the daunting journey to reclaim the cup the club last won in the 2022/2023 season," he said.
Strikers Moses Shumah and John Omondi are central to Barasa's game plan, showcasing a strong partnership that enhances Homeboyz's attacking strategies.
"Shumah, with his agility and sharp instincts, possesses the ability to slip past defenders with ease, while Omondi's powerful presence and aerial prowess make him a formidable threat in the box," Barasa said.
" Together, they form a partnership that has the potential to dismantle even the most resolute of defenses," he added.
Homeboyz aim to employ a fluid playing style, utilizing their strikers' agility and power while maintaining high possession and pressuring Shabana defensively.
Barasa said his players have demonstrated their capacity to execute intricate plays and adapt to the ebb and flow of the game.
"The training sessions have been intense, marked by a renewed focus and a determination to leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory," Barasa said.
But Shabana, under the guidance of Peter Okidi, is no pushover. They come into the match with their aspirations fueled by a recent KPL victory over Bandari.
With aspirations for a double this season, Okidi sees the FKF Cup as vital for affirming their status in Kenyan football.
"We see FKF Cup as a stepping stone to solidify our place in Kenyan football and we have sharpened our talons ready to challenge Homeboyz's aspirations," Okidi said.
"Our recent performances suggest a side that is not only capable of scoring but also adept at controlling the rhythm of the game. The blend of experience and youthful exuberance within the squad positions us as a formidable opponent, ready to challenge the Homeboyz' aspirations," he added.
