Kakamega Homeboyz head coach Francis Baraza described his side’s narrow 1-0 victory over Shabana FC in the Mozzart Bet Cup Round of 16 as “sweet revenge,” following a humiliating defeat just weeks earlier.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More NewsHeading into the crucial encounter, Homeboyz were still reeling from a 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Shabana at Gusii Stadium barely a month ago.##NAJAVA_MECA_8860014##The memory of that loss lingered, and with a place in the quarter-finals at stake, motivation was never in doubt.Shabana, meanwhile, entered the clash with wind in their sails—riding high on a seven-match unbeaten run and confidence born from their recent dominance over Homeboyz, many expected Torebobe to cruise through.However, in a tense and closely battled affair, it was the 2023 Mozzart Bet Cup champions who emerged triumphant.Future FKF president? President Ruto reveals son’s deep passion for footballMoses Mudavadi’s solitary first-half goal proved to be the difference, as AbanaBeingo not only sealed progression to the next round but also snapped Shabana’s impressive run and ended their silverware ambitions for the season.The match, played with intensity and a palpable edge, turned dramatic in the closing stages, with Shabana throwing everything forward in search of an equalizer. Yet, the Homeboyz defense stood tall, repelling wave after wave of pressure.An elated Baraza could not hide his satisfaction after the final whistle.”It is a sweet revenge,” the tactician declared. “They beat us 4-2 in Kisii, and that memory pushed us today.The slim margin made it even more satisfying—they fought hard for an equalizer that never came,” he said.Shadows over the game: Match-fixing concerns rock Division One Zone B as promotion race intensifiesBaraza credited his side’s mental resilience and tactical discipline.”They thought it would be a walk in the park. But we had a plan, and the boys executed it with character and determination. I’m proud of them.”##NAJAVA_MECA_8859944##With their place in the quarter-finals now secured, Homeboyz will look to build on the momentum and mount a strong challenge for their second domestic cup glory in two years.
