‘We will not underrate any team’ – Shabana official declares after FKF Cup draw
By Luke Oluoch, March 23, 2026Shabana FC Organising Secretary Stephen Kiama has opened up on the club’s prospects in the FKF Cup, stressing that there are no easy pairings in the upcoming Round of 16.
Speaking in an interview on Monday, March 23, 2026, Kiama asserted that total focus will be the key to securing further progress in the tournament.
Round of 16 draw
The Glamour Boys have been drawn against Kuta Collection, a non-league side, in the draw conducted on Monday, March 23, 2026.
“We have been drawn against Kuta Collection at their home, and we are ready for it,” Kiama stated. “There are no easy fixtures; every team has earned its place, and you cannot underrate any opponent. You saw recently how even top teams can struggle when they underestimate their rivals. There are no ‘small’ teams in Kenya anymore.”
Despite the challenge, Kiama expressed optimism about progressing and continuing the club’s quest for a maiden title since their return to the top flight in 2023.
Cup ambitions
With their FKF Premier League title dreams fading following a recent loss to Gor Mahia on Saturday, March 21, the FKF Cup now represents Shabana’s primary route to silverware this season.
“We hope to win against them and play the next stage at home. The final will decide the champion this year, and we hope it will be us. Let us meet at the final,” he added.
Kiama believes their journey will be aided by the fact that several FKF Premier League teams have been drawn against each other, ensuring that some top-tier contenders will exit the tournament early.
FKF PL encounters
“Already, we have match-ups between FKF-PL teams, meaning some will be exiting the tournament as we head into the next stage,” he noted.
Regarding the team’s preparation for the tie, Kiama emphasised that they will not be making drastic changes for the non-league side, preferring to stick to their established routine.
“Preparation is a continuous process that starts from the beginning of the season. You cannot change anything meaningful at this late stage; it is about maintaining our standards,” he concluded.
Read here on the full draw of the round of 16 fixtures.