Kenya Police vs Shabana: 5 Key Areas Where Clash Will Be Won Or Lost

Photo || Shabana and Kenya Police

Kenya Police vs Shabana: 5 Key Areas Where Clash Will Be Won Or Lost

Mark Kinyanjui 21:45 - 14.06.2025

5 areas where Kenya Police's game against Shabana will be won or lost.

Kenya Police will be playing their match against Shabana FC at Machakos Stadium on Sunday afternoon knowing that a point will be enough to make them FKF Premier League champions for the first time in their history.

Shabana are in the race to finish third, which would mark their highest ever finish in the league in over two decades. However, Police know that every margin will count for this game, and should they fail to get a point, they would have to take it to the last day against Gor Mahia, who are facing Ulinzi Stars at the same time.

Here are five key areas where the match could be decided:

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Kenya Police’s Discipline and Defensive Solidity Vs Shabana’s Free-flowing Attack

Police FC have built their title charge on a rock-solid defense—just 16 goals conceded all season, the best in the league. 

Their 4-2-3-1 formation, organized backline, and effective midfield shield make them exceptionally hard to break down.

In Brian Musa and Marvine Nabwire, Police have two midfielders that are good at protecting their defence, while at the same time dictating the game in tandem given their ability to drop deep to receive the ball to create numerical overloads in build up and create space for their four attackers.

Shabana, however, bring chaos—in the best way. With 40 goals scored, they boast the league's third-best attack, led by the explosive Brian Michira (14 goals) and prodigious Austin Odongo (7 goals). Their fluid, expressive style has seen them dismantle top sides on the counter.

This clash pits Police's discipline against Shabana's improvisation. Whoever wins this battle of opposites will likely win the match.

Kenya Police’s Set Piece and Areal Ability

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Police are dangerous from such situations, and also rely on their complete wing backs to create opportunities from crossing situations - particularly using Baraka Badi on the right.

Shabana, on the other hand, have shown weakness on set plays, often failing to track runners or deal with second balls. 

A classic example of this is against Gor Mahia at Gusii stadium, where they allowed Sylvester Owino to attack the back post unmarked before heading the ball into the back of the net.

Kenya Police V Shabana: 5 Key Areas Where Clash Will Be Won Or Lost
Bryson Wangai of Gor Mahia whips in a corner with his left foot. Sylvester Owino (15) is standing behind two teammates
However, Shabana's Marvin Ochieng (number 40) forgets he is supposed to keep tabs on Owino, who is allowed to make a run to the back post
Owino gets to the backpost unmarked before heading it into the back of the net.

If they don't fix that, they risk getting punished again.

Late Game Impact Players

Police have relied heavily on Marvin Nabwire for decisive moments especially in late moments.

 His knack for scoring late goals turned tense matches into vital wins—most notably against Kariobangi Sharks and Bandari.

Shabana’s late-game dynamism comes from their depth. Teenager Odongo and midseason signing Keith Imbali have brought creativity and calmness in closing phases, especially against compact teams.

Coaching Battle: Ndayiragije v Okidi

Etienne Ndayiragije has given Police FC a calm, calculated identity built on structure and control since his arrival last November.

 His side does not panic, even under pressure, and that temperament has delivered results. This may down to the fact they have several established internationals within the squad, which gives them that kind of edge. 

In contrast, Peter Okidi has fostered a fearless Shabana—bold in transitions, expressive in attack, and willing to risk it all. They have also been buoyed by their loyal support for much of the season.

Okidi has managed to get his side to stay unbeaten on the road in their last five away games in the league, and has crafted a team that believes it can beat anyone.

This is not just a tactical duel—it's psychological.

Kenya Police’s Psychological Pressure Might Count Against Them

Police need just a point to secure the title—but that might come with pressure, especially if Shabana score first. Playing not to lose could backfire.

Although Shabana are playing for third, it practically counts for nothing, given the Kenyan topflight league only has one continental slot - the CAF Champions League. 

As a result, they will be determined to be party poopers and are free to play spoilers and ruin the party.

That mental edge—freedom vs fear—could decide who keeps their nerve when it matters most.

No draws in either side’s last five games tells you all you need to know: this match is going to have a definitive result.

If Police FC stick to their principles and execute on set pieces, they’ll be crowned champions. But if Shabana unleash their full attacking freedom and disrupt Police’s rhythm early, title celebrations may just have to wait.

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