Tusker FC secured a hard-fought 1-0 victoryover Kariobangi Sharks at the Kasarani Stadium on Friday, booking their place in the quarter-finals of the Kenya FA Cup, Kwon as the Mozzart Bet Cup.
A early strike from Ian Simiyuin the 9th minute proved to be the difference, as the Brewers weathered a second-half storm from the Sharks to stay on track for their only realistic chance of silverware this season.
Speaking after the match, Tusker head coach Julien Mette—who took the reins in February 2026—admitted it was a game of two halves.
We did a good first 30 minutes, after [which] we started to lose our football and the second half was horrible,” Mette remarked. “But some injury, some guys are tired… okay, we take the qualification”.
The Frenchman emphasized the “do or die” nature of the cup, noting that the competition requires a different level of bravery compared to the league. For Mette, the Mozzart Bet Cup is the primary target to secure a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.
Despite the loss, Kariobangi Sharks earned plaudits for their fluid football in the second period. Head coach William Muluya lamented a missed opportunity by Armstrong Omondi, who failed to capitalize on a golden chance to equalize, sending his effort over the bar. “Armstrong Omondi would have settled and netted the equalizer but was in a rush,” Muluya noted. “But I am happy with the way we played despite being eliminated. We will now focus on the League.”
Tusker now turns their attention to a massive clash against Gor Mahia this coming Tuesday, a game Mette described as a priority for recovery given the high fatigue levels in his squad.
Other Mozzart Bet Cup Round of 16 fixtures are set to continue through Saturday and Sunday.
