In an electrifying showdown at the Dandora Stadium, Shabana FC edged past Sofapaka FC 1-0 in a tightly contested Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) match.
This match, played under heavy rain, showcased resilience, skill, and sheer determination from both sides. However, it was Ezekiel Omuri’s moment of brilliance in the first half that stole the spotlight and delivered three vital points for the Kisii-based club.
Ezekiel Omuri, a name now etched in the hearts of Shabana fans, delivered the decisive blow in the 26th minute. The South Mugirango native found himself unmarked in the Sofapaka penalty area, where he calmly collected a loose ball and fired a sublime shot into the left corner of the net. The goal, celebrated with passionate chants and dances by thousands of Shabana supporters, proved to be the only score of the game.
Speaking after the match, Omuri expressed gratitude to his coaches and fans. “The game has been a good one. I thank the fans for pushing us. I also thank my coaches for trusting me, even when my performances weren’t at their best,” he said, urging supporters to continue showing up in large numbers.
Despite the loss, Sofapaka FC, coached by Ezekiel Akwana, dominated possession for large parts of the game, particularly in the second half. The team created several clear-cut opportunities but failed to convert, leaving their supporters frustrated.
Sofapaka captain Humphrey Mieno reflected on the missed chances, saying, “We created more than six clear chances but couldn’t convert even one. It’s disappointing, but sometimes football is like that. We’ll take the positives and move forward.”
The best opportunity for Sofapaka came in the 70th minute when Edward Omondi broke through Shabana’s defense and unleashed a powerful shot. However, Shabana’s goalkeeper, Mulili Maxwell, was up to the task, deflecting the ball out for a corner. Sofapaka’s inability to capitalize on such moments ultimately cost them the game.
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Rainy Conditions Add Drama
The match’s rainy conditions added an extra layer of difficulty for both teams. The slippery pitch made ball control challenging, leading to a series of near-misses and defensive blunders. Despite these hurdles, both sides showed commendable determination and skill.
Shabana’s defense was particularly impressive in the second half, withstanding a relentless barrage of Sofapaka attacks. The decision to sit back and defend their slim lead paid off as they thwarted every attempt by Sofapaka to level the game.
Shabana’s Brian Michira also had his moment to shine. Early in the match, he came close to opening the scoring but couldn’t trouble Sofapaka’s goalkeeper, Evans Omondi. Later, Michira embarked on a dazzling solo run, firing a shot that hit the post and bounced back into play. Though unlucky not to score, Michira’s performance showcased his growing influence on the team.
Shabana’s tactical discipline underlined their victory. Coach Ezekiel Akwana’s decision to sit deep and rely on counter-attacks proved effective, especially against a Sofapaka side that dominated possession. This approach, combined with key saves from goalkeeper Maxwell and Omuri’s clinical finish, sealed the win.
Sofapaka, despite their dominance, lacked the cutting edge in front of goal. Their over-reliance on long balls and crosses failed to break Shabana’s resolute defense. The absence of clinical finishing was evident throughout the game, leaving the team with plenty to ponder.
Mali ya taifa na wetu siku zote. @michirabryan . https://t.co/RYICOsg1GH pic.twitter.com/Fr4GkE1l7A
— Shabana Fc Kenya (@Shabanafckenya) January 27, 2025
Shabana Climbs to Fifth in the FKFPL Table
With this victory, Shabana FC climbed to fifth place in the FKFPL standings, overtaking both Sofapaka and AFC Leopards. The win brought Shabana’s total to 30 points, just six points behind league leaders Tusker FC. This result highlights Shabana’s growing stature in the league and their potential to challenge for higher honors.
Sofapaka, on the other hand, must regroup quickly. The team’s inability to convert chances has been a recurring issue, and they’ll need to address it ahead of their next match against Bandari FC.
Shabana FC will look to maintain their momentum when they face Posta Rangers in their next FKFPL clash. With their confidence soaring after this victory, they’ll aim to solidify their position in the top half of the table.
For Sofapaka FC, the road ahead is challenging. Their clash against Bandari FC presents an opportunity to bounce back, but they must improve their finishing if they hope to secure a win. The team’s captain, Humphrey Mieno, remains optimistic, saying, “It’s tough, but we’ll work harder and come back stronger.”
