Kenya Police Bullets FC are on the cusp of making history, needing just one more victory to secure their first-ever berth in the CAF Women’s Champions League. Their thrilling 3-2 win over Simba Queens in the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA zonal qualifiers semifinal at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Ethiopia has set the stage for a momentous final.
Simba Queens Enter as Favorites
Heading into the semifinal, Simba Queens were widely regarded as the favorites to advance to the final. The Tanzanian giants had been in scintillating form throughout the tournament, with their attacking duo, Jentrix Shikangwa and Corazone Aquino, leading the charge. Their reputation as free-scoring contenders made them the team to beat.
From the opening whistle, Simba Queens looked to assert their dominance. Shikangwa was the first to test Police Bullets’ defense, forcing a save from keeper Annedy Kundu. Moments later, Aquino’s powerful shot narrowly missed the target, signaling Simba’s intent to take control of the game.
Police Bullets Soak Up the Pressure
Despite Simba’s early pressure, Police Bullets, under the astute guidance of coach Beldine Odemba, remained composed. The Kenyan side knew they had to withstand Simba’s initial onslaught before launching their counter-attacks. Odemba’s game plan revolved around keeping the defense tight, frustrating Simba’s attackers, and hitting them on the break.
This strategy paid off in the 23rd minute when Lucy Kwekwe capitalized on a rare error from Simba’s goalkeeper Carolyne Rufa. A spilled ball in the box was all Kwekwe needed to slot home the opener, putting Police Bullets ahead against the run of play. The goal was a testament to Police’s discipline and opportunism, turning their first clear chance into a crucial goal.
Simba Queens Fight Back
However, Police Bullets’ lead was short-lived. Just ten minutes later, a similar mistake at the other end allowed Simba Queens to equalize. Keeper Annedy Kundu, who had been solid up to that point, spilled a cross, and Aquino was on hand to tap in the equalizer. The goal restored parity and reignited Simba’s confidence.
Simba continued to push forward, looking for the go-ahead goal before halftime. They nearly found it through Shikangwa, whose shot was tipped over the bar by Kundu in a moment of redemption for the Police keeper. The first half ended with the scores level, but both teams knew there was still everything to play for.
A Thrilling Second Half
The second half began with more intensity as both teams sought to break the deadlock. It was Simba Queens who struck first, with Aquino once again proving her worth. In the 56th minute, she controlled a long pass beautifully before unleashing a half-volley that flew past Kundu into the net. It was Aquino’s second goal of the match and her fourth of the tournament, putting Simba ahead 2-1.
But Police Bullets were far from finished. Just five minutes later, they responded with an equalizer of their own. Diana Wacera, known for her aerial prowess, rose highest to meet a free-kick delivery, powering a header past Rufa to make it 2-2. The goal was a demonstration of Police’s resilience and ability to bounce back when under pressure.
Okwaro’s Late Winner
As the match wore on, it became clear that the next goal could be the winner. Both teams created chances, but it was Police Bullets who found the decisive breakthrough. In the 82nd minute, Rebecca Okwaro, who had been a constant threat throughout the game, latched onto a through ball, rounded the onrushing Rufa, and calmly slotted the ball into the empty net.
The goal sparked wild celebrations on the Police Bullets bench, as they sensed that victory was within their grasp. Despite some late pressure from Simba Queens, Police held on to secure a famous 3-2 win, booking their place in the final and moving one step closer to their first-ever CAF Women’s Champions League appearance.
A Historic Opportunity Awaits
With the victory, Police Bullets have set up a final showdown against the winner of the second semifinal between Kawempe Muslim and Commercial Bank of Ethiopia. Should they win the final, Police Bullets will become only the second Kenyan team to qualify for the CAF Women’s Champions League, following in the footsteps of Vihiga Queens, who made history in 2021.
This achievement would mark a significant milestone for the club, which is participating in the continental qualifiers for the first time. Under the leadership of Beldine Odemba, Police Bullets have shown that they can compete with the best teams in the region, and they now stand on the brink of continental glory.
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Conclusion: One Step Away from History
Kenya Police Bullets FC have defied the odds to reach the final of the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA zonal qualifiers. Their 3-2 victory over Simba Queens was a testament to their tactical discipline, resilience, and determination. With just one more win, they can etch their name in the history books and join the elite ranks of African women’s football.
As they prepare for the final, all eyes will be on Police Bullets to see if they can complete their fairytale run. No matter the outcome, their journey has already inspired countless fans and set a new standard for Kenyan women’s football.
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