Simiyu reveals next target for Tusker after Mozzart Bet Cup triumph
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Reading Time: 3min | Fri. 19.06.26. | 09:37
The MVP insists the Brewers must aim higher than participation as they prepare for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup campaign
Mozzart Bet Cup Most Valuable Player Ian Simiyu has challenged Tusker FC to carry their domestic success onto the continental stage.
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The MVP insists the Brewers must aim higher than participation as they prepare for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
Simiyu, who inspired Tusker to a long-awaited knockout triumph, believes the victory should mark the beginning of a stronger era for the club rather than the peak of their progress.
The midfielder enjoyed a standout cup run, capped by a decisive performance in the final against Kenya Police, where he scored twice.
His consistency throughout the competition saw him named Most Valuable Player, Midfielder of the Tournament, and Man of the Match in the final.
Looking ahead to continental football, the former Nzoia Sugar man has made it clear that Tusker must approach Africa with ambition and belief rather than caution.
He says the team has already proven its quality domestically and now needs to translate that form onto a bigger stage.
“My immediate focus is to help Tusker dominate the continental stage in the CAF Confederation Cup next season,” Simiyu said. “We are not just going there to participate; we want to prove that Kenyan football has the quality to match the best clubs across the continent.”
For the former St. Anthony's Kitale player, the Confederation Cup also represents a personal opportunity to test himself against different tactical systems and higher levels of intensity.
The midfielder believes those experiences will be crucial in shaping the next phase of his career.
“I want to leave a lasting legacy here before I eventually make the step to pursue my football career abroad. Playing in Africa gives me the perfect platform to test myself against different tactical systems and elite physical players.”
The midfielder has also been quick to credit Tusker head coach Julien Mette for his development.
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He praised the Frenchman’s demanding training methods and tactical discipline, which, according to him, the coach has played a central role in shaping both his mentality and the team’s competitive edge.
“Coach Mette completely changed my mentality by pushing me out of my comfort zone every single day in training. For us to survive and thrive against North and West African giants, every player must replicate that discipline and demand absolute defensive accountability," he said.
Simiyu admitted that his early months at the club were challenging as he adjusted to the pace and physical demands of top-flight football.
He revealed that patience and learning from the bench were key parts of his development before he established himself as a regular starter.
“My first few months at this club were incredibly challenging because the rhythm of top-flight football is entirely different; I had to sit on the bench, watch closely and completely reinvent my approach to the game.”
“When things get tough on the continental road, the pressure will become immense, but we must remain calm and compact. Success in Africa requires more than just skill; it demands absolute mental resilience until the final whistle.”
After ending Tusker’s 10-year wait for knockout silverware and collecting top individual honours along the way, Simiyu believes the current squad has laid a strong foundation for sustained success.
“This is just the beginning of a very long and successful journey for this group of players. We have tasted success now, and it has only made us hungrier for more silverware on the big stage.”