Kenya Police FC are poised to make history as they aim for a spot in the CAF Champions League group stages, with their crucial second preliminary round match against Sudan’s Al Hilal set for Friday, October 17. Despite uncertainty over the match venue, as the Nyayo National Stadium is set to host the State Funeral Service for the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga, Kenya Police FC remain undeterred.
Captain David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng expressed confidence that the team is fully prepared for the challenge, citing their recent league matches as a significant boost in terms of form and fitness. The match against Al Hilal is a do-or-die encounter, with both teams eager to secure a place in the group stages.
“We are very ready for this match. The league games have helped us gauge our form and we know the importance of this game,” said Ochieng. “This is a historic moment for the club, as a win will take us to the group stage for the first time ever, and we believe Kenya Police FC belong at this level.”
Ochieng acknowledged that Al Hilal is a formidable side, known for their regular appearances in the CAF Champions League group stages. However, he remains optimistic that his team is capable of overcoming the challenge, adding that the players are highly motivated to fight for victory.
“We respect Al Hilal, but we are confident in our ability. The players are determined, and we know what is at stake. We are representing Kenya, and we want to make sure we do it with pride,” Ochieng remarked.
Kenya Police FC’s journey to this stage has been a remarkable one. In the first round of the competition, they faced Mogadishu City Club from Somalia in a two-legged affair. Despite a 0-2 loss in the second leg, Kenya Police FC advanced on the away goals rule, having won 3-1 in the first leg. The club’s remarkable progression has ignited hopes of a historic appearance in the group stage, and the upcoming match is seen as a significant step toward that achievement.
The players have expressed their commitment to representing the nation with pride, and if they manage to secure a win, the team plans to dedicate the victory to the late Raila Odinga in recognition of his support for Kenyan football.
As the team gears up for what could be their most significant match to date, Kenya Police FC’s resolve and ambition shine through, making them one of the most exciting teams to watch in this year’s CAF Champions League.