Matasi’s penalty masterclass propels Kenya Police to FKF Cup glory
In an exhilarating climax to the 2024 FKF Cup, Kenya Police claimed their first-ever title by defeating KCB 8-7 on penalties. The intense final, held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday, June 29, 2024, saw the teams locked in a goalless stalemate through regular and extra time.
Patrick Matasi, the 37-year-old goalkeeper for Kenya Police, was the undisputed hero of the match. Awarded man of the match, Matasi made two crucial saves during the shootout and scored the decisive penalty to seal the victory.
This landmark win for Kenya Police not only brings them the prestigious FKF Cup but also a KES 2 million prize from sponsor Mozzart. Additionally, they have secured a spot in the CAF Confederations Cup for the next season. KCB, as runners-up, were awarded KES 1 million.
The final match was a cautious affair, with both teams adopting defensive tactics that resulted in few clear scoring chances. This mirrored the trend of the previous two FKF Cup finals, both of which also featured minimal goal action.
The drama unfolded in the penalty shootout. KCB’s Danson Chetambe converted the first penalty, with Musa Mohammed equalizing for Kenya Police. Matasi then saved Collins Neto’s shot, allowing Rashid Toha to put Kenya Police ahead.
Despite Kenya Police losing their advantage when David Odhiambo hit the post, Stephen Etyang capitalized for KCB, making it 4-3. Kenneth Muguna’s composed finish for Kenya Police sent the contest into sudden death.
In the sudden death phase, both teams displayed nerve and precision. Kevin Okumu, Tyson Otieno, Herit Mungai, David Owino, Derrick Otieno, and Abud Omar all scored their penalties, keeping the tension high at 7-7.
The match was decided in the ninth round of penalties when Matasi saved Shadrack Simiyu’s shot before stepping up to score the winning penalty himself, sparking celebrations among the Kenya Police supporters.
In the third-place play-off, AFC Leopards defeated Kariobangi Sharks 2-1. Victor Omune, named man of the match, scored first in the 16th minute, with Randy Bakari doubling the lead in the 32nd minute. Keith Imbali scored for Kariobangi Sharks in the 74th minute, but AFC Leopards held on, earning KES 750,000. Kariobangi Sharks received KES 500,000 for finishing fourth.
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