Ulinzi Starlets will be aiming to inch closer to defending the FKF Women’s Cup when they take on Kisumu All Starlets in one of the two semifinals set to be played on Wednesday, 31 May 2023 at the Rift Valley Institute of Technology Grounds at 3 PM EAT.The military-backed side edged Vihiga Queens 2-1 in the inaugural edition of the competition in 2021 to be crowned champions.##NAJAVA_MECA_7292188##Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Ulinzi Starlets coach Joseph Mwanza exuded confidence in his team ahead of the clash, noting that they are ready for the match, although he does not expect an easy match against a side that has already been relegated from the Premier League.”We are ready to defend the Cup and we have done enough preparations for this game. everyone in the team is in high spirits ahead of the game. We were targeting to win the league but we fell shot and this remains as the only trophy that we can take back to our employer at the end of the season and we will do everything to win it.It will not be an easy game considering that Kisumu All Starlets have already been relegated and they will also want to progress to the final and win the Cup as a consolation but we are the defending champions and I believe we have what it takes to go all the way and win it again.Sharks skipper Otiala focused on Harambee Stars debut after maiden call upBeing a knockout match, it means that as a coach I will also have to be at my best to observe and analyze the opponent and make the necessary changes if any during the game. Knockouts require more tactical approach and patience, but at the same time we must be able to embrace game maintenance,” Wambua said.The first semifinal of the day will see Nakuru City Queens take on Kibera Soccer Ladies at 1 PM in a match that the Nakuru-based side will be hoping to capitalize on the home advantage and book a slot in the final for the first time.Nakuru City Queens have had an impressive run in the tournament, defeating Gaspo Women and Thika Queens on their journey to the semifinals.Kibera Soccer Ladies, the only FKF Women Division One team remaining in the tournament, have proven themselves as a formidable side and are the front runners in the promotion race to the topflight.Coach David Vijago is confident that they can pull an upset on Nakuru City despite them enjoying the home backing and their Premier League status.”Our target is to play in the final and to do so we have to win today’s game. We have prepared well and are ready for the challenge ahead of us. They’ll be enjoying the home advantage but I believe we can pull a result against them,” Vijago told Mozzart Sport.
