Kuta Collections keep FKF Cup fairytale alive

Nairobi’s Kuta Collections FC continues to turn heads in the FKF Cup, standing out as the only non-league side still in the competition following last weekend’s Round of 32 matches.

On Sunday at the Kasarani Annex, Kuta Collections edged FKF Division Two side KSG Ogopa FC 1-0 in a tightly contested encounter. The decisive goal came in the second half when midfielder Ibrahim Elias Ahmed, popularly known as Mao, finished from close range after a clever build-up involving Giovanni Lukhumwa and Erick Otieno.

Despite several crucial saves from KSG Ogopa goalkeeper Mark Ali, Ahmed’s strike proved enough to seal victory and secure Kuta Collections a place in the Round of 16.

The club’s remarkable run began in the Round of 64, where they eliminated Al-Azizia FC of Meru — a National Division One side — in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.

Team captain Morgan Odhiambo is all praise for the squad’s performance.

“The game was good. At least we were able to play according to the instructions from the technical bench, and luckily the result went our way. Compared to the previous match, the team showed better cohesion. We are looking forward to the next game and we are confident that whoever we face, we will give our best.”

Operating without a dedicated training ground, Kuta Collections keep sharp through friendly matches and support from well-wishers.

The team is led by player-coach Augustine Mtiang’a Kuta, a former top-flight footballer who previously featured for Nairobi City Stars and Posta Rangers. Today, he combines mentoring young players with running his sports store.

The club’s mission is to provide young and unattached footballers with a platform to showcase their talent and pursue professional careers.

As the FKF Cup heads into the Round of 16, Kuta Collections FC’s underdog story continues to inspire, and the million-dollar question remains: can they defy the odds to reach the final?

Such a fairy-tale run would rekindle the tale of Nairobi United who went all the way to surprise giants, to win the FKF Cup last term.