Ndayiragije’s Police FC Era Begins with a Victory Over City Stars
Kenya Police FC head coach Etienne Ndayiragije celebrated his first win at the helm with a 3-1 victory over Nairobi City Stars at Dandora Stadium. The Burundian tactician ended Police’s five-match winless streak, providing a much-needed boost for the Law Enforcers, who had been under immense pressure after a rocky start to the season.
The victory came after an initial setback, where Police lost 1-0 to AFC Leopards in Ndayiragije’s debut. The new coach, who replaced Anthony Kimani, now has a solid foundation to build on as he seeks to steer the club back on track.
Match Highlights: Kenya Police vs. Nairobi City Stars
The encounter between Police and City Stars was a thrilling affair, with both teams showcasing attacking intent and individual brilliance. Here’s how the match unfolded:
 Police Take Early Control
Police started the match with high intensity, and their efforts were rewarded in the 14th minute when Clinton Kinanga broke the deadlock. Kinanga, showing exceptional bravery, headed in a cross from Abud Omar despite being closely marked by defenders and an advancing goalkeeper Edwin Mukolwe.
The goal was set up by Brian Musa, who won possession deep in City Stars’ half and laid the ball off to Omar, giving the fullback enough time to whip in a pinpoint cross. Despite their dominance, Police failed to capitalize on several clear-cut chances, with Francis Kahata, David Okoth, and Kenneth Muguna all failing to convert.
City Stars, however, clawed their way back in the 38th minute through Mohamed Bajaber. A well-delivered cross from Calvins Masawa found Yuto Kusaba, whose effort eventually fell to Bajaber. The forward calmly curled the ball past retreating defenders, marking his second goal of the season.
The equalizer was short-lived as Police quickly regained their lead in the 40th minute. Marvin Nabwire capitalized on a clever long ball from David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng, slotting the ball past Mukolwe with a powerful finish for his third goal of the season. Nabwire’s strike ended the first half with Police in the lead, 2-1.
Substitutes Seal the Win for Police
City Stars made the first change of the game, bringing in Timothy Muganda for Wycliffe Awiko at the start of the second half. The initial moments were marked by a cautious approach from both teams, with neither side committing fully to attack.
Fifteen minutes into the second half, Police made a double substitution, introducing Erick Zakayo and Tyson Otieno in place of Okoth and Kahata. The fresh legs injected energy into Police’s play, but converting chances remained a challenge.
Haloooo December
FULL -TIME
police FC 3-1 @nrbcitystars
âš½kinanga
âš½ Marvin
⚽Zakayo#tuchezetujuane pic.twitter.com/o3NArm1Fhv— KENYA POLICE FC (@kenyapolicefc) December 4, 2024
City Stars pushed hard for an equalizer, making additional substitutions to strengthen their attack. However, Police’s defense, anchored by Cheche, stood firm against the visitors’ advances.
The decisive moment came late in the game when substitute Erick Zakayo scored a stunning solo goal to put the match beyond City Stars’ reach. Zakayo combined neatly with Otieno, found space, and dribbled past two defenders before firing a powerful shot past Mukolwe. The goal marked Zakayo’s first for Police, sealing an emphatic 3-1 victory.
What Ndayiragije’s First Win Means for Police FC
The win lifts a significant burden off Ndayiragije’s shoulders and provides much-needed optimism for Police FC. The team had struggled under previous coach Anthony Kimani, and the Burundian tactician’s appointment marks a fresh start for the Law Enforcers.
The performance against City Stars showcased Police’s attacking potential, with contributions from key players like Kinanga, Nabwire, and Zakayo. While there is still room for improvement, particularly in finishing and defensive organization, the victory offers a strong foundation for the team to build on.
City Stars’ Struggles Continue
For Nairobi City Stars, the loss extends their disappointing run, highlighting ongoing issues in their defensive setup. Despite moments of promise, such as Bajaber’s goal, City Stars failed to capitalize on their chances and paid the price for lapses in concentration.
Players Who Stood Out
Clinton Kinanga (Kenya Police FC)
Kinanga was instrumental in Police’s victory, scoring the opening goal and assisting Nabwire’s second. His physicality, bravery, and awareness were evident throughout the game.
Mohamed Bajaber (Nairobi City Stars)
Bajaber’s composed finish was a bright spot for City Stars. The forward has now scored twice this season, showcasing his potential as a reliable goal-scorer.
Erick Zakayo (Kenya Police FC)
Zakayo’s late goal was the highlight of the match. The substitute’s composure, skill, and finishing ability capped off a memorable day for Police.
Looking Ahead
With Ndayiragije now off the mark, Kenya Police FC will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures. The team’s attacking depth, combined with the coach’s tactical adjustments, provides hope for a turnaround in their season.
For City Stars, the focus will be on addressing defensive lapses and finding consistency in the final third. The team has shown flashes of brilliance but needs to translate them into sustained performances to climb up the league standings.
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