Bandari face acid test against Bungoma Stars as Talanta look to stifle minnows Marafiki

©Bandari

FKF CUP Bandari face acid test against Bungoma Stars as Talanta look to stifle minnows Marafiki

Festus Chuma 09:31 - 28.01.2024

Bandari brace for a crucial match against Bungoma Stars, while Talanta aim to dominate Marafiki in pivotal FKF Cup preliminary round matches.

2019 FKF Cup champions Bandari FC are gearing up for a formidable challenge as they prepare to lock horns with Bungoma Stars in a highly anticipated preliminary round clash at Sudi Stadium.

This encounter is not just a match but a test of mettle for Bandari, a team with ambitions of representing Kenya in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.

Bandari are on a quest to reclaim their glory in the knockout competition as their captain Andrew Juma emphasized their readiness and respect for their opponent.

"We have prepared well, and we are not going to underrate our opponent. We will give it our all in our quest for the next round and go all the way to the final," he confidently stated.

This match comes against a backdrop of regional football fervor, particularly from Bungoma.

The Bungoma Super Stars, another team from the region, gained acclaim in 2019 by defeating AFC Leopards and reaching the quarterfinals.

Although the squad has seen significant changes over the years, the region's past glories resonate as a reminder of their potential to disrupt even the best-laid plans.

Elsewhere in the tournament, Al Azizia is set to host Luanda Villa at Kinoru Stadium, showcasing the depth of talent in the FKF Cup.

Similarly, Eldoro Sports Club is gearing up for a showdown against Mombasa Stars at Wundanyi Stadium, adding to the Sunday's football fiesta.

In Nyeri, Division Two's Marafiki FC is preparing for a David vs. Goliath battle against FKF Premier League side FC Talanta at Kinunga Stadium.

Despite their underdog status, Marafiki FC is buoyed by Talanta's recent form, having not won in their last eight league matches.

Talanta, sitting twelfth in the Premier League, faces a spirited challenge from Marafiki, currently sixth in their league.

The Round of 32 fixtures, set to unfold from February 24 to 25, 2024, promise thrilling football action.

The winners of these preliminary clashes will advance to the next stage, inching closer to the coveted Mozzart Bet title.

This title not only brings prestige but also a ticket to the CAF Confederation Cup and a Ksh 2 million cash prize.

The runner-up is not far behind with a generous Ksh1 million prize. Additionally, teams securing the third and fourth places will be rewarded handsomely with Ksh750,000 and Kshh500,000, respectively.

Sunday Round of 32 fixtures

Al Aziza v FC Luanda Villa (Kinoru Meru)

Eldoro Sports Club Villa v Mombasa Stars (Wundanyi, Taita Taveta)

Marafiki v FC Talanta (Kinunga, Nyeri)

Bungoma Stars v Bandari (Sudi, Bungoma) 

Follow Pulse Sports WhatsApp channel for more updates.