Kakamega Homeboyz’s head coach, Patrick Odhiambo, has provided insight into their crushing 4-1 defeat to Libya’s Al Hilal Benghazi, a loss that led to their early exit from the CAF Confederations Cup during the first preliminary round.
Participating in continental competitions for the first time following their victory in the Mozzart Bet Cup, Homeboyz’s journey was regrettably brief, encompassing merely two matches—one at home and one away—before the coveted group stage remained beyond their grasp.
Addressing their dismantling in Libya, Odhiambo directed blame towards Al Hilal’s fervent fans, who illuminated the stadium with an array of lasers and flares.
The pivotal match, set against the backdrop of the 10,550-capacity Martyrs February Stadium in Benghazi, was marred by the challenging conditions created by the home supporters.
“The home fans made it extremely difficult for us as they lit up all manner of lasers and flares. At some point I could struggle to see the ball and my players,” Odhiambo expressed.
A former coach of Tanzania’s Biashara United, Odhiambo conveyed that despite their best efforts, the circumstances prevented them from showcasing their true capabilities and representing the Kenyan flag at its fullest.
In the realm of continental competitions for the 2023/24 season, Abana Beingo stood as Kenya’s solitary representatives.
This outcome unfolded due to the expulsion of Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia from the CAF Champions League for non-compliance with CAF Club Licensing Rules.
“We struggled to adapt to the environment and by the time we did, it was too late,” shared the former head coach of Tanzania Prisons FC.
In the aftermath of the contrasting outcomes experienced by Gor Mahia and Homeboyz, Kenya finds itself, for the fifth consecutive season, absent from the group stages of continental competitions.
The Kakamega-based outfit now shifts its focus to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League.
They begin their season away with top-flight rookies Murang’a Seal at St. Sebastian Park after their opener with KCB last weekend was postponed.
