Ulinzi Starlets have secured their third consecutive FKF Women’s Cup title, defeating Kibera Soccer Women in a thrilling final held at the Police Sacco Grounds. This victory marks a remarkable achievement for the Soldiers, who previously claimed the cup in 2021 and 2023. The 2022 edition of the tournament was not held due to a FIFA suspension.
Journey to the Final
The path to the final saw Ulinzi Starlets demonstrating their dominance and resilience. In the semifinals, they faced off against their arch-rivals, Kenya Police Bullets. It was a hard-fought match, but Ulinzi emerged victorious, securing their place in the final. On the other hand, Kibera Soccer Women, making their first appearance in a final, showcased their talent by defeating Zetech Sparks in the other semifinal.
The Final Showdown
Heading into the final, Ulinzi Starlets were determined to achieve a hat-trick of titles. The game kicked off with the Soldiers taking control early on, putting Kibera Soccer Women under immense pressure. Kibera, despite their best efforts, were forced to adopt a defensive stance, attempting to counter-attack whenever possible.
In the 21st minute, Ulinzi had a golden opportunity to open the scoring, but Fasila Adhiambo’s shot-cum-cross missed the target. Moments later, Adhiambo shot straight at the goalkeeper, followed by Lavenda Akinyi missing a one-on-one chance. Kibera’s defense was hanging by a thread, struggling to contain the relentless Ulinzi attack.
Breaking the Deadlock
Ulinzi’s persistence paid off in the 39th minute when Joseph Wambua’s charges finally capitalized on one of their numerous chances. Kihara, displaying great composure, fired home from inside the area, giving Ulinzi a well-deserved lead. The Soldiers continued to dominate, taking a 2-0 lead into the halftime break.
A Tactical Battle
The second half saw Kibera Soccer Women attempting to regroup and mount a comeback. However, Ulinzi’s tactical discipline and solid defense thwarted any significant threats. Ulinzi’s midfield controlled the tempo of the game, ensuring that Kibera found it difficult to create clear-cut chances.
Securing the Title
As the clock ticked down, Ulinzi Starlets remained focused and composed, not allowing Kibera any room to maneuver. Their experience in high-stakes matches was evident as they managed the game efficiently, ensuring that their lead remained intact. The final whistle blew, confirming Ulinzi Starlets’ third consecutive FKF Women’s Cup title.
Celebrating a Remarkable Achievement
The victory was a testament to Ulinzi Starlets’ consistency and excellence in Kenyan women’s football. Coach Joseph Wambua praised his team’s effort, dedication, and resilience throughout the tournament. The win also highlighted the depth and quality of Ulinzi’s squad, with key players stepping up at crucial moments to secure victory.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Ulinzi Starlets have cemented their status as a dominant force in Kenyan women’s football. The team will look to build on this success in future competitions, aiming to continue their winning streak and inspire the next generation of female footballers in Kenya.
Conclusion
Ulinzi Starlets’ triumph in the FKF Women’s Cup final against Kibera Soccer Women is a significant milestone, showcasing their dominance and consistency in the sport. As they celebrate this remarkable achievement, the focus now shifts to maintaining their high standards and achieving further success in the coming seasons.
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