
Image: Mwinyi Chibato (c) Denmak FC Maganyakulo
FKF Division 2 Northern Zone Pool A side Denmak FC Maganyakulo produced a dominant performance to defeat Uzalendo FC 3-0, booking their place in the Mozzart Bet Cup round of 32. The Maganyakulo-based outfit showcased their attacking prowess early on, securing a well-deserved victory that strengthens their bid to make a deep run in the tournament.
Denmak has already built a reputation as giant slayers, having stunned FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia in the round of 32 last season before exiting in the round of 16 at the hands of SS Assad. This time, they are determined to push further in the competition.
Pre-Match Build-Up
Denmak entered this clash in high spirits, fresh from a 3-0 victory over Junior FC from Wundanyi in their previous match. In contrast, Uzalendo FC was still recovering from a heavy 5-1 defeat at the hands of Machakos University, making them the clear underdogs in this tie.
Both teams represent different footballing backgrounds—Denmak FC, a fast-growing club from Maganyakulo, a small town along the Kenya-Lungalunga highway in Kwale County, and Uzalendo FC, a team that plays its home matches at Scott Christian University in Machakos.
Denmak FC’s New Sponsorship and Kit Launch
Denmak FC’s ambitions were further boosted off the pitch with significant developments in their financial and branding strategies. On February 21, 2025, the club unveiled a new sponsor, the Rashid Abdallah Foundation, which will support them alongside their main sponsor, Kombani Homes Ltd.
On the same day, Denmak also launched their new jerseys, designed by Beest Athletic, a well-known kitmaker based in Kahawa Sukari. The fresh look is part of the club’s wider strategy to establish a stronger identity in Kenyan football.
Match Recap: Denmak’s Ruthless Display
From the first whistle, Denmak FC asserted dominance, pressing high and creating early chances. Their attacking intent paid off almost immediately in the 7th minute, when playmaker Ali Mwaperu was brought down inside the box, winning a penalty. Striker Mwinyi Chibato stepped up confidently, giving Denmak an early 1-0 lead.
That goal boosted Denmak’s confidence, and they continued to pile pressure on Uzalendo’s backline. The visitors struggled to cope with the pace and physicality of Mwaperu, Chibato, and Samuel Visendi, who constantly forced defensive errors.
Just before halftime, Chibato struck again in the 45+1st minute, latching onto a well-timed pass before finishing clinically to double Denmak’s lead. The goal not only put Denmak in a commanding position but also marked Chibato’s third goal in the Mozzart Bet Cup, having netted against SS Assad in the round of 16 defeat last season.
In the second half, Denmak FC refused to take their foot off the pedal, continuing to dominate possession and create chances. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute, when Samuel Visendi added a third goal, effectively sealing the victory and extinguishing any hopes of an Uzalendo comeback.
Concern for Denmak’s Goalkeeper
Despite the comfortable win, Denmak FC suffered a late setback when goalkeeper Mohamed Khatib “Donnarumma” sustained a head injury in the dying minutes of the match. The shot-stopper, who had been solid throughout the game, went down after hitting the goalpost and required urgent medical attention. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, leaving Denmak with concerns ahead of their upcoming assignments. The club is yet to issue an official update on his condition.
Denmak’s Path Forward
This convincing win sees Denmak advance to the round of 32, where they will be looking to build on their momentum. The team has proven its ability to compete with higher-tier opponents, as seen in last year’s shock victory over Gor Mahia, and they will be eager to repeat or surpass that feat in the coming rounds.
With new sponsorship backing, a great fanbase, and an in-form squad, Denmak FC is shaping up to be one of the most exciting teams to watch in this year’s Mozzart Bet Cup.
For Uzalendo FC, the loss marks the end of their campaign, and they will now shift their focus to regrouping and improving their performances in their league matches.