Bandari forward on feeling after former side Tusker clinched Mozzart Bet Cup
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 17.06.26. | 17:32
The winger, who is a trained journalist, ditched Tusker for Bandari last year
Bandari FC forward Eric Naaman Balecho has opened up on his emotions after watching former club Tusker FC end a decade-long wait for the Mozzart Bet Cup.
Balecho insisted that he holds no bitterness and is proud of what his current side achieved this season.
Download our Mozzart Sport App for more news
Tusker were crowned 2026 Mozzart Bet Cup champions after edging Kenya Police FC 2-1 in a thrilling final played at Kwale Stadium on Sunday, 14 June.
Balecho, who joined Bandari FC at the start of the season, also had a memorable outing in Kwale after helping the Dockers secure the third place with a 2-0 victory over KCB FC.
Despite enduring a challenging first campaign at Bandari that attracted criticism from sections of supporters on social media, the former Murang’a Seal attacker believes the season ended on a positive note.
“I feel proud of what we achieved this season, especially finishing third in the Mozzart Bet Cup during my first campaign with Bandari FC,” Balecho told Mozzart Sport.
The forward was also gracious in his assessment of Tusker’s success, congratulating his former teammates for their achievement.
“Seeing my former team, Tusker FC, lift the trophy is perfectly normal; it's part of football. I congratulate them on their achievement. They have done exceptionally well, and it is encouraging to see the progress and improvements the team has made,” he added.
Balecho's first season at Bandari was far from straightforward.
The attacker admitted that adapting to life at the coastal club came with its fair share of difficulties, but he remained patient and focused on turning things around.
“Settling in at Bandari was not entirely smooth. I started on a difficult note and faced a few challenges along the way, but I remained focused and eventually found my footing. I'm pleased with where I am now,” he explained.
The forward further revealed how he relied on mental strength to navigate the pressure that came with heightened expectations and criticism throughout the campaign.
“Throughout the season, I have had to stay mentally strong and maintain confidence in myself. Criticism is always part of the game, but what matters is how you handle it. For me, it was about managing the pressure positively and continuing to work hard,” Balecho said.