Homeboyz head coach names player instrumental in win over Shabana

Kakamega Homeboyz head coach Francis Baraza has hailed his goalkeeper Ibrahim Wanzala for his pivotal role in their narrow but hard-fought victory over Shabana FC, a win that secured their place in the quarter-finals of the Mozzart Bet Cup.

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While it was Moses Mudavadi’s first-half strike that ultimately sealed the 1-0 win, it was the exceptional performance of the youthful Wanzala that proved decisive, particularly during the high-pressure closing stages of the match.

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Speaking after the final whistle, coach Baraza did not hold back in his praise for the young shot-stopper.

“I am very happy with Wanzala,” Baraza said. “He played our first match of the season before being out for eight months. We worked hard to prepare him gradually, and he made a solid return against AFC Leopards. But today, he was simply magnificent.

His saves in the final minutes were crucial, they kept us alive in the game. I am truly pleased with his resilience and performance.”

The Kenya U20 international, featuring in only his second match after an extended injury layoff, delivered a commanding display between the posts, thwarting Shabana’s relentless late surge with a series of superb saves.

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Having been sidelined for eight months due to a persistent knee injury, Wanzala’s return to form was both timely and inspirational.

His reflexes, composure, and presence under pressure not only preserved Homeboyz’s slender lead but also earned him the man-of-the-match accolade.

The 2023 Mozzart Bet Cup champions are set to face Nairobi United in the quarter-finals, following the NSL leaders' dramatic 6-5 victory over KCB FC in a tense post-match penalty shootout.