CAF Champions League debutants Kenya Police FC have set their sights on reaching the group stage of Africa’s premier club competition.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More NewsSpeaking on Thursday at the Police Sacco Pavilion in Nairobi after being named the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Coach of the Month for June, head coach Etienne Ndayiragije expressed confidence in his side’s ability to make an impact on the continental stage.“I’m a prayerful person, and I love challenges. I don’t work under pressure,” said the Burundian tactician.##NAJAVA_MECA_9013531##“Yes, we didn’t go past the first round in the Confederation Cup last season, but with proper planning and training, we can even go beyond the group stage in the Champions League. We have solid teamwork, and that’s vital in any sport.”Police made their continental debut in the 2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup but were eliminated in the first round by Egyptian giants Zamalek, losing 3-1 on aggregate.Now shifting their focus to the more prestigious Champions League, Ndayiragije, 46, admitted the team needs reinforcements, particularly in midfield and attack, to compete with Africa’s elite.Kenya Police FC head coach scoops SJAK’s June Coach of the Month gong“We want to leave a mark in the Champions League. Just like we shocked many in the FKF Premier League, we want to ruffle feathers in Africa,” he added. “This award is emotional for me. I dedicate it to the players, the management, and my family, who are currently here on holiday.”Team manager George Maelo echoed the coach’s ambitions, emphasizing the squad’s quality and the pressure of expectation.“We have clear targets. President William Ruto challenged us to return the Premier League trophy to State House, and we also want to reach the group stage of the Champions League,” said Maelo. “There is pressure, yes, but this team knows how to handle it. I’ve witnessed their growth and believe in what they can achieve,” quoted Nation Sport.Harambee Stars striker reveals why AFC Leopards move collapsedMaelo also used the occasion to criticize Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy for overlooking standout local players ahead of the postponed 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).“In football, selections should be based on statistics, not emotions,” he said. “How do you leave out a player who has scored eight goals or a goalkeeper with numerous clean sheets?” he asked, referring to midfielder Marvin Nabwire and goalkeeper Job Ochieng. “##NAJAVA_MECA_9012788##For clinching the Coach of the Month award, Ndayiragije received a personalized trophy and a cash prize of KSh100,000.He becomes the second foreign tactician to win the accolade this year, after South African Carlos Kyatwa of Kabras Sugar RFC was recognised in April.Emmanuel Osoro explains withdrawal from Harambee Stars CHAN squadNairobi United’s Nicholas Muyoti finished second in the June voting, after guiding his side to the National Super League title and the FKF Mozzart Bet Cup.
