Okere pledges aggressive approach as Brewers chase fifth Mozzart Bet Cup

Tusker FC head coach Charles Okere has made no secret of his ambition to guide the Brewers back to silverware in the 2026 Mozzart Bet Cup, seeking to end a prolonged five-year domestic trophy drought.

The Ruaraka-based side last celebrated a major triumph in the 2020-21 season, and Okere is eager to restore the club to its familiar pedestal. “The Mozzart Bet Cup is very important for us, and it is one trophy we are determined to win this season,” Okere said.

“The last two campaigns fell short of expectations, and now it is time to demonstrate progress and improvement.”

Okere stressed that every match in the knockout competition carries weight, leaving no room for complacency. “From this point, every match is a final,” he said. “We have six games ahead, and each one demands our absolute best. In cup football, there are no big or small teams; every game is decisive. There are no underdogs.”

The coach’s declaration comes shortly after the Mozzart Bet Cup round of 64 draw conducted on Thursday, which confirmed Tusker FC’s opening tie against Mwea United FC on the road. Okere acknowledged that starting away from home presents challenges, but he remains confident in his team’s ability to navigate them.

“An away tie is always tricky, but it is an opportunity for us to assert ourselves early in the competition,” Okere noted. “We must treat every match as a final and approach it with focus and intensity.”

Tusker’s history in the Mozzart Bet Cup is storied. The club has claimed four titles in the 70-year-old tournament, but their last victory came a decade ago in 2016.

Since then, the Brewers have come close but fallen short, including a loss to Kakamega Homeboyz in the 2023 final at Kasarani Stadium.

“History shows that Tusker has the pedigree to win this cup,” Okere said. “We are aware of the past disappointments, but we are ready to write a new chapter and reclaim our place among the champions.”

Reflecting on previous near misses, the coach emphasised lessons learned. “In 2024, we exited in the round of 16 to Kakamega Homeboyz after a 1-0 defeat,” he said.

“Last year, we lost in the round of 32 on penalties to Nairobi United, the eventual champions. These experiences have made us stronger and more determined.”

Okere also highlighted the importance of momentum from the league as a platform for cup success. “Our league form is critical,” he said. “Consistency week by week will give us the confidence and rhythm we need to compete in the Mozzart Bet Cup.”

On the wider objective, the coach believes the domestic cup offers a realistic pathway back to continental competition. “Winning the cup is our fastest route to return to Africa,” Okere said. “It provides an opportunity for exposure, for testing our squad against strong opponents, and for restoring Tusker’s status on the continental stage.”

Finally, Okere reaffirmed the team’s mentality as they prepare for the tournament. “We know this is a chance to end a long drought and to make our fans proud,” he said. “Every player understands what is at stake. Our focus is clear, and we aim to bring the trophy home.”