Kenya Police FC’s Sakari warns against complacency in title, Champions League push

Kenya Police FC’s Sakari warns against complacency in title, Champions League push

Harambee Stars defender Daniel Sakari has reflected on Kenya Police FC’s delayed start to the 2025/26 SportPesa League season, where the reigning champions were held to a goalless draw by Ulinzi Stars at Police Sacco Stadium.

Sakari, who came on in the second half, said the game intensified as it progressed, with Ulinzi finishing stronger in the final stages.

“The game heated up, but it was okay. We wanted more points than what we got here. Towards the end, Ulinzi were the stronger team, and it was their moment, but we managed to hold on for a draw,” he told The Eastleigh Voice.

The defender also commented on Police FC’s CAF Champions League preliminary round tie against Mogadishu City Club.

Kenya Police held a 3-1 advantage from the first leg but were pegged back in the return leg, which ended 2-0 in favour of the Somalis, levelling the tie at 3-3 on aggregate. However, thanks to the away goals rule, Police progressed to the next round.

The away goals rule means visiting team goals carry extra weight in a tie. Kenya Police FC advanced because they scored three away goals in the first leg, while Mogadishu scored two in the return leg.

Sakari acknowledged that overconfidence nearly cost them: “We relaxed in the second leg, and we were lucky not to concede three. Going into the next game against Al Hilal of Sudan, we need to raise our game and score early.”

He also highlighted the challenge posed by the Sudanese giants. “Al Hilal is a good team, they’ve been there for a while. We are not going to underestimate them; we have to go all out,” he noted.

Looking beyond their continental campaign, Sakari reaffirmed the Kenya Police’s determination to defend their League crown while setting personal goals.

“From Kenya Police, we have to defend the title. I want more wins, more assists, more cups with my team and with the national team,” he concluded.

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