Kenya Police FC kicked off their 2025 CECAFA Kagame Cup campaign with a commanding 4-0 victory over Djibouti’s Garde Cotes at Isamuhyo Stadium on Tuesday, September 2.
The Kenyan champions displayed tactical brilliance and sharp attacking instincts, with goals from Eric Zakayo, David Simiyu, Edage Baraka Badi, and new signing Edward Omondi.
The win boosts Police FC’s confidence as they prepare to face Singida Black Stars of Tanzania and Ethiopia Coffee of Ethiopia in Group A, aiming to secure a top spot and progress to the semifinals.
Kenya Police FC asserted control early in the match, with Eric Zakayo opening the scoring in the 17th minute. Zakayo’s well-timed run and clinical finish demonstrated the team’s focus and determination. “We wanted to start strong and show we mean business,” said head coach Etienne Ndayiragije.
The team maintained pressure, creating several chances and dictating the tempo. David Simiyu doubled the advantage on the half-hour mark after receiving a perfectly timed pass from Baraka Simiyu, emphasising the side’s cohesive attacking style. Ndayiragije praised the goal, stating, “Every goal is the result of teamwork and discipline.”
In the 64th minute, Edage Baraka Badi struck with a powerful shot following a brilliant assist, making it 3-0.
His ability to control space and finish clinically reflects why he is a crucial offensive asset for Police FC. Later, Edward Omondi, the team’s recruit, capped the emphatic win with a composed strike in the final minutes. “Omondi showed exactly why we brought him in—strength, pace, and calmness in front of goal,” Ndayiragije explained.
The team’s fluid passing, tactical awareness, and relentless work rate overwhelmed the Djibouti side, who struggled to create meaningful opportunities throughout the game. Kenya Police FC are drawn in Group A alongside Singida Black Stars of Tanzania, Garde Cotes of Djibouti, and Ethiopia Coffee of Ethiopia. The tournament, which runs from September 2 to 15 across Dar-es-salaam, features 12 teams divided into three groups of four.
Matches will take place at KMC Stadium, General Isamuhyo Grounds, and the Azam Complex. According to tournament rules, the top team from each group will progress directly to the semifinals, joined by the best second-placed team. The Group A winner is scheduled to face the best runner-up in the semifinals, while the winners of Groups B and C will battle for the other semifinal spot.
Police FC head coach Etienne Ndayiragije applauded his team for a disciplined and tactical display. “We prepared thoroughly for this match. Every game is important, and starting with a win against Garde Cotes boosts our confidence and morale,” he said.
Ndayiragije emphasised the significance of maintaining focus and cohesion, noting that each goal reflected both collective effort and individual brilliance.
He highlighted the performances of Zakayo, Simiyu, Badi, and Omondi, asserting that their interplay and determination were critical in securing the commanding win. “Each goal was a result of tactical execution and individual brilliance. We want to sustain this attacking mentality for the rest of the group matches,” he added. The coach also stressed that sustaining momentum is key for the upcoming group matches.
“We must continue to play with focus and consistency. Every team in this tournament is strong, but our mindset and preparation give us an edge,” Ndayiragije explained. He further noted that integrating new signings like Omondi adds depth to the squad, and the young attacker will play a crucial role in future encounters. He said each goal demonstrated Police FC’s tactical awareness, fluid passing, and offensive sharpness.
Ndayiragije emphasised that such performances are essential to sustaining confidence and achieving success in the tournament. Upcoming Challenges Kenya Police FC will face Singida Black Stars in a crucial Group A encounter. Coach Ndayiragije stressed the importance of consistency and mental resilience. “Each match is different. Singida will be tough, but our morale is high. We aim to continue dominating in every game and secure a spot in the semifinals,” he said.
Ndayiragije also highlighted the importance of maintaining the performance standard displayed against Garde Cotes, particularly as the tournament progresses and the competition intensifies. The draw for the 2025 CECAFA Kagame Cup, conducted on August 28 at Pan Pacific Suites in Nairobi, placed APR FC of Rwanda in Group B alongside NEC FC of Uganda, Bumamuru FC of Burundi, and Mlandege FC of Zanzibar.
Group C features Sudan’s Al Hilal, Kator SC of South Sudan, Mogadishu City Club of Somalia, and Sudanese giants Al Ahly. Singida Black Stars, APR FC, and Al Hilal Omdurman were designated as the top seeds in Groups A, B, and C, respectively.
Backed by official sponsor Betika, the tournament promises intense competition and a showcase of the region’s finest football talent. Coach Ndayiragije concluded by sharing his vision for the campaign, emphasising that Kenya Police FC aim not only to progress from the group stages but also to challenge for the CECAFA Kagame Cup title. “This is about building confidence, integrating new players, and demonstrating the strength of Kenyan club football on a regional stage,” he said.
