Kenya Police striker David Simiyu celebrates with skipper Abud Omar during a past match/HANDOUTKenya Police FC, fresh off their maiden Kenyan Premier League title, have flown to Dar es Salaam ahead of the 2025 CECAFA Kagame Cup.
Coach Etienne Ndayiragije is confident the team can dominate their group and make a strong statement in the premier regional inter-club showpiece set for September 2-15.
The law enforcers have been drawn in Group A, alongside Tanzania’s Singida Black Stars, Ethiopia Coffee, and Garde Cotes FC of Djibouti.
Ndayiragije said; “Our group is competitive, no doubt. Singida Black Stars are strong and technically gifted, Ethiopia Coffee has history and quality, and Garde Cotes are resilient. But we have prepared meticulously. We are not here to participate—we are here to compete and win.”
"Every tournament is different. The CECAFA Kagame Cup tests not only skill but character. I trust my players to show professionalism and fight for every ball. We aim to make Kenya proud.”
“Group B and C are also challenging,” Ndayiragije noted. “APR FC, Vipers SC, Flambeau du Centre, Al Hilal Omdurman, Al Ahly SC Wad Madani—these are top teams in East and Central Africa. But I believe Kenya Police has the structure, pace and mental toughness to stand out.”
He continued; “Last year’s tournament saw Zambia’s Red Arrows surprise everyone. That’s why we must stay focused. One mistake can cost a match. We have worked on tactical flexibility, so we can adjust during games and respond to pressure.”
CECAFA Competitions Manager Youssuf Mossi said the tournament helps clubs prepare for CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup campaigns. Ndayiragije agrees.
“We are looking at CECAFA not just as a trophy but as preparation for continental competition,” he said.
“It gives players experience in high-pressure games. We have young players who need this exposure. We want them to gain confidence, understand regional tactics, and integrate fully into our style of play.”
Kenya Police are determined to do better than Gor Mahia, who failed to progress past the group stage in the previous edition.
Ndayiragije reflected; “We watched Gor Mahia’s campaign closely. Mistakes were mostly in concentration and squad rotation. We have learned from that. Our approach is organised: every player knows their role. We are here to impose our game, control possession, and exploit weaknesses.”
He emphasised mental preparation: “Football is 50 per cent skill, 50 per cent mindset. Our players are motivated. They know the history, they know what Kenyan fans expect, and they are ready to deliver.”
“We will rely on quick transitions and disciplined defence. Our midfielders must control tempo; our forwards must be clinical. But more importantly, teamwork will decide our success. I trust the character of this squad.”
On player rotation, he said; “It’s a long tournament. Fitness is critical. We will rotate where necessary without compromising quality. Every player is important. Everyone will have a chance to prove themselves.”
"Winning it would show that Kenyan football is competitive in East and Central Africa. Our KPL triumph gave us confidence, but we must now back it up on the regional stage.”
He concluded; “We want to inspire young footballers in Kenya. We want fans to watch and feel proud. Every match, every tackle, every goal counts. This team has hunger and determination. Dar es Salaam will see a Kenya Police team that fights until the final whistle.”
