In a tense, must-win match at the CECAFA Kagame Club Championship, Kenya Police FC showed incredible determination to secure a 2-0 victory and advance to the quarter-finals. 

After a goalless battle for most of the game, substitutes Alvin Mangeni and David Okoth scored two late goals, proving to be the heroes of the day. 

This crucial win not only kept their regional title hopes alive but also reinforced their reputation as the reigning Kenyan champions, ready to face the top clubs from across East and Central Africa.

In a thrilling finish in Dar es Salaam, reigning Kenyan champions Kenya Police FC advanced to the quarter-finals of the CECAFA Kagame Club Championship with a crucial 2-0 win over Ethiopia’s Ethiopian Coffee SC.

The victory, sealed by two late goals, was a testament to the team’s resilience and determination to keep their hopes of a regional title alive.

Facing a must-win situation, Kenya Police FC struggled to break down a well-organized Ethiopian defense for most of the match. 

Chances were few and far between in a tense affair, but the team’s persistence paid off in the final moments. 

Coach Etienne Ndayiragije made key changes, bringing on Alvin Mangeni and David Okoth, who would go on to be the heroes. 

In the 85th minute, Mangeni found the back of the net after a precise cross from Geoffrey Onyango. 

Just when it seemed the game was over, Okoth sealed the victory deep into stoppage time with a clever finish, rounding the goalkeeper to score. 

The team’s defense also played a vital role, with goalkeeper Khadame Ndiaye making a stunning save to maintain a clean sheet.

The path to the knockout stage was far from easy for the Kenyan side. 

After a strong 4-0 start against Djibouti’s Garde-Cotes, a loss to Singida Black Stars and a draw against fellow Kenyan team Gor Mahia meant they needed a final-day win. 

Finishing second in their group, the victory highlights the team’s ability to perform under pressure on a regional stage. 

As their captain, David Simiyu, stated, the team’s mission is to “show Kenyan football’s strength.” 

Their performance is a strong follow-up to their recent FKF Premier League championship, proving they are a force to be reckoned with.

The win sets up a challenging quarter-final clash for Kenya Police FC against a yet-to-be-confirmed opponent. 

The Kagame Cup is more than just a tournament; it’s a prestigious competition that brings together top clubs from East and Central Africa. 

The champions will be awarded a significant $30,000 prize, a major boost for the club’s development and players’ welfare. 

As the team prepares for the next round, their dramatic win against the odds serves as a powerful signal of their fighting spirit and their ambition to join the ranks of Kenyan clubs like Gor Mahia and Tusker who have previously lifted this coveted trophy. 

The next match will be a true test of their character as they aim for regional glory.