In a gripping FKF Cup semifinal, KCB FC emerged victorious over Kariobangi Sharks, advancing to the final after a tense penalty shootout that ended 4-2 at the Police Sacco Stadium on Sunday.
The match, locked in a 1-1 stalemate through regular and extra time, was decided by the heroics of KCB’s goalkeeper Faruk Shikhalo, who denied Geoffrey Onyango and Stanley Wilson from the spot.
His teammates Derrick Otanga, Henry Onyango, Danson Chetambe, and Henry Ochieng, ensured success by converting their penalties. For the Sharks, captain Kevin Luke Otiala and Fredrick Alushula were the only ones to find the net in the shootout.
The initial 90 minutes saw a flurry of activity with two quick goals. KCB’s substitute Derrick Otanga broke the deadlock in the 76th minute, outpacing the defense and slotting the ball past the goalkeeper. However, the Sharks responded immediately, with Fortune Omotto equalizing from a rebound off John Mark Makwatta’s shot.
KCB adopted a defensive strategy, countering the Sharks’ more aggressive play, which had previously earned them a 3-0 victory over KCB just weeks before. The Sharks had several opportunities to score, particularly through Leon Otieno and Makwatta, but Shikhalo’s vigilant goalkeeping kept the scores level.
The second half saw KCB’s offense improve with the introduction of Philemon Nyakwaka and Otanga, putting pressure on the Sharks’ defense. Despite this, the game proceeded to extra time, where both teams struggled to maintain the tempo due to fatigue.
As the match neared its conclusion, the Sharks prepared for penalties by substituting their goalkeeper, bringing on Kevin Ouru for Stepianos Wekesa. However, it was KCB who held their nerve, securing their spot in the final and keeping their dreams of CAF Confederations Cup qualification alive.
