Kenya Police FC fall to Al Hilal in CAF Champions League first-leg clash at Ulinzi
The match, played behind closed doors at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, saw the visitors take control early on and secure a crucial away win courtesy of Adama Coulibaly’s 19th-minute strike.
Kenya Police FC’s hopes of advancing to the CAF Champions League group stage suffered an early setback after a 1-0 home defeat to Sudanese giants Al Hilal Omdurman in the first leg of the second preliminary round on Friday afternoon.
The match, played behind closed doors at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, saw the visitors take control early on and secure a crucial away win courtesy of Adama Coulibaly’s 19th-minute strike.
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Adama capitalised on a defensive mishap after Charles Ouma’s back-pass was intercepted by Abdel Rouf. The ball deflected to Adama, who outpaced defender Brian Okoth before slotting past goalkeeper Job Ochieng to give Al Hilal the lead.
Despite the Police’s spirited response and improved attacking play, they failed to find the equaliser. Head coach Etienne Ndayiragije made a double substitution early in the second half, bringing on Edward Omondi and David Okoth for Eric Zakayo and Exaule Misuri, but the changes could not unlock the resilient Sudanese defence.
Police dominated possession and created several half-chances, but Al Hilal’s experience and organisation proved decisive as they held firm to protect their narrow advantage.
The match was played without fans after the venue was shifted from Nyayo National Stadium to Ulinzi Sports Complex due to preparations for the state funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday.
Kenya Police’s starting lineup featured Job Ochieng, Baraa Badi, Daniel Sakari, Brian Okoth, captain David “Cheche” Ochieng, Charles Ouma, Tobias Otieno, Marvin Nabwire, Eric Zakayo, Samuel Ayanride, and Exaule Misuri.
The defeat leaves the law enforcers with a tough task ahead of the return leg next Saturday in Omdurman, where they must win to stand any chance of reaching the lucrative group stage, an achievement that guarantees each qualifying team at least $750,000 (Sh96 million) in prize money.
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