Ulinzi Stars kicked off their Mozzart Bet Cup campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kirinyaga Stars FC in a round of 64 clash at Kianyaga Ground, Kirinyaga. The win sees the military side progress to the round of 32 in the prestigious knockout tournament that features teams from all tiers of Kenyan football. The ultimate prize for the winners is a ticket to represent Kenya in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Early Lead and First-Half Dominance
Leshan Ole Mootian opened the scoring for Ulinzi Stars in the 18th minute, capitalizing on an assist from new signing Joseph Baraza Omuse. Omuse, a former St. Anthony’s Boys Kitale captain, recently joined the team during the mid-season transfer window and had made his debut just days earlier against Kariobangi Sharks. Ulinzi Stars held onto their 1-0 advantage as the teams went into halftime.
Tactical Changes at Halftime
At the break, Ulinzi Stars made a triple substitution, withdrawing Omuse, veteran forward Oscar Wamalwa, and fellow new signing Abdallah Kidato, who was acquired from military-affiliated Vickers FC. Their places were taken by Ibrahim Shambi, Victor Kioko—who also rejoined Ulinzi Stars in the mid-season window—and striker Suleiman Ngenya, signed from Desert Scorpion FC.
Late Drama and Match-Winning Goal
As the match wore on, head coach Danstan Nyaudo made further changes in the 72nd minute, bringing on Javan Omondi and Munyao for Leshan Ole Mootian and defender Alex Masinde.
The hosts refused to go down without a fight and found an equalizer in the 85th minute, setting up a tense finish. However, Ulinzi Stars had the final say as Javan Omondi netted the winner in the 90th minute, securing victory from a Victor Kioko assist.
Looking Ahead
Ulinzi Stars will be looking to go further than their 2024 campaign, where they bowed out in the round of 16 after a 2-1 loss to Kariobangi Sharks. With a solid start to this year’s tournament, the military side will be aiming to make a deep run and challenge for the coveted Mozzart Bet Cup title.
