Why Sofapaka’s coach Zico is wary of giant Killers Bungoma All-stars

Sofapaka FC head coach Zedekiah Zico Otieno acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by their FKF Cup round of 16 opponents, Bungoma Stars.

Bungoma Stars have demonstrated their strength by eliminating Football Kenya Federation Premier League sides Bandari FC and FC Talanta in previous matches of the Cup competition.

Sofapaka coach comments

Zico insists they need to approach the match with total seriousness, recognizing their opponent's track record of defeating strong teams.

"Bungoma Stars is not an easy team since they eliminated Bandari fc and Talanta fc and therefore we are very ready for the team and we treat this match with the seriousness that it deserves," Zico told Sofapaka media.

Regarding their training sessions, Zico said the international break was an opportunity for productive training akin to a midseason break.

He utilized the period experimenting with different player combinations to enhance the team's performance for future matches.

"So far we have had very good training sessions, and for me, this was like a mid season training camp and we have tried different combinations which will help the team win matches, going forward," he pointed out.

Zico also talked of the significance of the three friendlies Sofapaka played during the international break.

These matches against Tusker, Mathare United, and Young Kings FC (the Chapa Dimba Nairobi edition champions) have bolstered their preparations and provided valuable opportunities to test their tactical strengths.

"We have played three friendlies during this international break season against Tusker, Mathare United and Young Kings fc," he added.

Meanwhile, this weekend marks the return of local football action with the FKF Cup set to resume, featuring the round of 16 matches scheduled for March 30 and 31, 2024, at various venues across the country.

Sofapaka early kick off

The excitement begins with a doubleheader in Kisumu on Saturday at Jomo Kenyatta Mamboleo Stadium. First up is the clash between giant killers Bungoma Stars and FKF Premier League side Sofapaka, followed by Kakamega Homeboyz taking on Tusker.

Simultaneously, at Police Sacco Stadium, Bidco United will host KCB, while Kenya Police will challenge FKF NSL side Mombasa Stars.

Sunday's fixtures will showcase action between Shabana and AFC Leopards at Jomo Kenyatta Mamboleo Stadium while a coastal encounter between SS Assad and Denmak FC is set to unfold at Ukunda Showgrounds.

In other matchups, Ulinzi Stars will face off against Kariobangi Sharks at Police Sacco Stadium, while division one side Compel will clash with Mara Sugar.