Odemba Eyeing Cecafa Triumph as Police Bullets March into Finals

Beldine Odemba, one of Kenya’s most celebrated female football coaches, is on the cusp of adding another significant achievement to her decorated career. Her team, Police Bullets, has stormed into the finals of the Cecafa Zonal Caf Women’s Championship in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, following a gripping 3-2 victory over Simba Queens in the semifinals on Monday.

The journey to the final has been anything but easy for the Bullets, who have shown resilience and determination throughout the tournament. Their semifinal clash against Simba Queens, a formidable opponent with a roster full of talent, was a testament to their fighting spirit and tactical prowess.

The match began with Police Bullets taking the lead in the 29th minute, thanks to a well-placed shot by Lucy Kwekwe. However, their joy was short-lived as Simba Queens, driven by the skillful Kenyan international Corazon Aquino, equalized just ten minutes later. Aquino, who has been a key player for Simba Queens, struck again in the 56th minute, putting the Tanzanian side ahead and piling pressure on Odemba’s team.

Despite the setback, the Bullets remained composed. Diana Wacera brought the game level again in the 61st minute, a crucial goal that reignited the team’s hopes. As the match neared its conclusion, it was Becky Okwaro who emerged as the hero for the Bullets, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Simba Queens to score the winning goal in the 83rd minute. The goal not only sealed their place in the final but also showcased the depth and determination within the team.

Odemba, who also helms the Harambee Starlets, Kenya’s national women’s team, was full of praise for her players after the match. She acknowledged the tough challenge posed by Simba Queens, especially with familiar faces like Corazon Aquino, Caroline Rufa, and Jentrix Shikangwa on the opposing side.

“We knew we were up against a very strong team, with players who have a lot of experience and skill. But we were prepared, and the girls executed the game plan perfectly. Stopping a team like Simba Queens, known for their attacking prowess, was not easy, but our defense held firm, and our forwards took their chances when it mattered most,” Odemba commented.

Looking ahead to the final, Odemba is aware of the challenge that awaits. Police Bullets will face the Central Bank of Ethiopia FC (CBE), the tournament hosts, who secured their spot in the final with a 2-1 victory over Ugandan side Kawempe Muslims. The two teams have already met in the group stage, where CBE narrowly defeated the Bullets 2-1. This history adds an extra layer of intrigue to Thursday’s final, with both teams eager to prove their superiority.

Odemba remains optimistic despite some minor injuries within the squad. She emphasized the need to address the defensive lapses that have seen the team concede four goals in their last two matches. “We need to tighten up at the back. The final will be a tough game, and we cannot afford to make mistakes. Our strikers, led by Becky Okwaro, need to be sharp and capitalize on any early chances to put us in control of the match,” she said.

The Central Bank of Ethiopia FC will also be motivated by the desire for revenge after their defeat to Vihiga Queens in the 2021 Cecafa finals, where they lost 2-1 at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi. The Ethiopian side is expected to put up a strong fight, backed by home support.

Police Bullets’ executive chairman, Nyale Munga, has hailed the team’s performance so far and urged Kenyans in Addis Ababa to turn out in large numbers to support the team. “We have demonstrated that we are a top team in East Africa. The final is within our reach, and we need all the support we can get to bring the trophy home. I call upon all Kenyans in Addis to come and cheer for our girls,” Munga stated.

The stakes are indeed high, with the Cecafa regional title and a coveted spot in the Caf Women’s Champions League up for grabs. Thursday’s final promises to be a thrilling encounter as two of East Africa’s finest teams battle for supremacy.