Kakamega Homeboyz head coach Francis Baraza has lavished praise on goalkeeper Ibrahim Wanzala following the team’s gritty 1-0 win over Shabana FC, a result that sealed their spot in the quarter-finals of the Mozzart Bet Cup.
Although it was Moses Mudavadi’s clinical first-half finish that secured the scoreline, it was Wanzala’s heroics between the sticks—especially in the dying moments—that ultimately made the difference. “I am very happy with Wanzala,” said Baraza after the final whistle. “He played our first match of the season before being out for eight months. We worked hard to prepare him gradually, and he made a solid return against AFC Leopards. But today, he was simply magnificent. His saves in the final minutes were crucial, they kept us alive in the game. I am truly pleased with his resilience and performance.”
The 20-year-old, featuring for only the second time since recovering from a long-term knee injury, showcased exceptional reflexes and composure to deny Shabana’s late attempts at an equalizer. His commanding presence under pressure earned him the man-of-the-match honor and was a stark reminder of his potential as a rising star in Kenyan football.
Wanzala’s journey back to full fitness has been long and challenging, but his performance against Shabana was a statement of both recovery and resolve. Kakamega Homeboyz, the reigning Mozzart Bet Cup champions, will now turn their focus to a quarter-final clash against National Super League side Nairobi United, who booked their place with a thrilling 6-5 penalty shootout win over KCB FC.