Explained: Why Kenya Police Were Dumped Out of CECAFA Kagame Cup Despite Getting 6 Points

When David Okoth scored Kenya Police’s second goal to give them a 2-0 win over Ethiopian Coffee at the ongoing CECAFA Kagame Cup in Tanzania, they knew their chances of progressing to the semi-finals was not in their hands.

Police’s aim was to try and finish in second place, but hoping other results went in their favor to qualify for the semi-finals.

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Although Oliver Mang'eni struck the other goal for Police, the win was not enough to book a semi-final slot. The format allows only the three group winners and one best second-placed side to advance.

With Kinondoni finishing second in their pool on seven points, Police—who won twice but lost once—were edged out on six points. Their 2-1 defeat to Tanzanian side Singida Black Stars proved decisive, forcing them to shift focus to their upcoming CAF Champions League debut.

Head Coach Etienne Ndayiraggije remained upbeat, praising his players’ improvement and character.

"This tournament has been good for us. I have very young players and they needed this stage to learn. For sure we have learnt a lot and we are hopeful that we will be better when our league resumes," he said.

At Isamuhyo, the first half was cagey before Police broke through late. Mang’eni, a halftime substitute, opened the scoring with five minutes left before Okoth sealed the win moments later.

The law enforcers began their campaign strongly with a 4-0 victory over Djibouti’s Garde-Cotes on September 2, 2025. 

As part of their preparations, the FKF Premier League champions have strengthened their squad, adding ex-Harambee Stars defender Joash Onyango, as well as Khadime Ndiaye (Senegal), Tansley Mosengo (DR Congo), Samuel Olewasegun (Nigeria), Exauce Misuri (DR Congo), Gideon Muyadi (DR Congo) and Mbombo Moise (DR Congo)

Police claimed their maiden FKPL title in June 2025,  dethroning record champions Gor Mahia, and will now turn full attention to their first-ever CAF Champions League campaign later this year.