This archive report was first published on 7 August 2019.
Kenya's representatives in this year's Caf Confederation Cup, Bandari FC, are gearing up for a crucial match against Sudanese side Al Ahly Shendi at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani on Saturday.
According to coach Bernard Mwalala, the team's preparations have been thorough, with a pre-season stint in South Africa and participation in the Cecafa Kagame Cup.
"Our preparations started very early, and I have no complaints whatsoever on our preparations for this particular game and the upcoming season in general," Mwalala said.
Despite losing custodian Farouk Shikalo to Tanzanian giants Yanga SC, Mwalala is confident that the team has the depth to overcome the loss, with two capable keepers, Mustafa Oduor and Michael Wanyika, already on the roster.
"We only have two keepers at the moment, but for depth purposes, we need one more keeper. I cannot reveal much, but a foreign custodian is joining us soon," Mwalala hinted.
The team has also signed three new players, including Danson Chetambe from Zoo FC, Alex Luganji from Nairobi Stima, and Cliff Kasuti from Sofapaka, with Chetambe already in contention for a starting place on Saturday.
"They are all very good players and have gelled well with the rest of the team. We were lucky to have Chetambe with us in Rwanda for Kagame Cup, he is totally fit and in tandem with the rest," Mwalala said.
Team captain Felly Mulumba echoed Mwalala's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of a home win.
"We have had a good pre-season, and it is time to see the results of it. We honestly don’t know our opponents very well, but our aim is to win at home and we will fight hard to ensure we get a good result on Saturday," Mulumba said.
