Homeboyz ready to tackle Africa's top sides after bottling Tusker
Football
By
Washington Onyango
| Jul 03, 2023
Kakamega Homeboyz are arguably Kenya's second best club in the season ending 2022-2023 campaign.
Record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia who won their 20th Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League last month leads the way followed by Homeboyz after the FKF Cup triumph on Saturday.
Tusker who finished second in the league before bottling another chance for a trophy might argue that they are the second best team in the country, but without a trophy to show for it they will find it hard to support their argument.
Homeboyz saw off Tusker 1-0 in the FKF Cup finals played at Kasarani Stadium on Saturday to pick the remaining ticket to play at the continental level.
While K'Ogalo booked their spot in the Caf Champions League after they were crowned FKF-Premier League champions, Homeboyz will be Kenya's representative in the CAF Confederation Cup.
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Additionally, this will be the first time that Homeboyz will be playing at the continental level, with the FKF Cup being the first major title in their history.
After achieving the feat, Homeboyz coach Patrick Odhiambo said they are ready for African football.
Speaking after the victory against Tusker, Odhiambo said they celebrate their win with their big family on both the stands and back at home but after that they start preparations to try and make an impact in the continental games.
"We thank God for the win. Everything starts with God and I am glad we won the cup. I also thank our fans and my players for not giving up despite the tough journey," said Odhiambo.
"It is through team work and collaboration plus support from the Homeboyz management that we are here today.
"Shout out to the experienced Amwayi (Kevin) who rallied the team and made them believe that they can win the title because the young lads needed motivation. I believe with proper investment and a few signings, we will even be a better side come next season."
Tusker head coach Robert Matano on the other hand blamed defensive lapses after the defeat and called for new signings.
"We need players with character and we can withstand pressure. It is very sad how we lost. I am not happy. We need to reflect and come back stronger next season but with better players," said a dejected Matano.
Homeboyz forward Moses Shumah was voted the Most Valuable Player. AFC Leopard's custodian Levis Opiyo emerged the best goalkeeper with Stewart Omondi the top scorer.
Homeboyz also claimed Sh2million prize money. In fact, they will go home Sh4 million richer after Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula promised to reward the team with a further Sh1 million and their sponsor Mozzart Bet adding a further Sh1million.