Tusker head coach Julien Mette/HANDOUT Tusker FC head coach Julien Mette has challenged his players to seize a rare opportunity to rescue their season and write themselves into the club’s history books when they face Kenya Police FC in the FKF MozzartBet Cup final at Kwale Stadium on Sunday.
The Brewers returned to training this week after a four-day break following the conclusion of the SportPesa League season, with full focus now shifting to a match that could deliver silverware and a place in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
Speaking on Wednesday, Mette urged his players to embrace the significance of the occasion as they seek to end a difficult campaign on a positive note.
“We know what lies ahead of us, and I require maximum focus and hard work from all of you,” Mette said.
The French tactician reminded the players that Sunday's final presents an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy at the club.
“You have an opportunity to write your names into the club’s history books and win something not only for yourselves, but also for your families,” he added.
Tusker's league campaign failed to meet expectations, with the 12-time champions finishing ninth in the standings. However, their impressive run in the domestic cup competition has offered a chance for redemption.
Forward Eric Kapaito admitted the players are fully aware they have fallen short of the standards expected at the club.
“This season has been very difficult for us because, as players, we have not performed to our standards,” Kapaito said.
“We struggled to get things going and finished in a position that is far below what Tusker FC expects.”
Despite those struggles, Tusker have shown a different side of themselves in knockout football, eliminating Bidco United, Ulinzi Stars and KCB to reach the final.
Kapaito believes the team's resilience throughout the competition demonstrates its ability to rise to the occasion.
“We have performed well in the Cup and fought our way to the final,” he said. “It has not been an easy journey, but we have shown what we can do as a team. This is an opportunity for us to make amends and win something.”
Mette has overseen a significant turnaround since taking charge midway through the season, helping stabilize the team after a difficult first half of the campaign. While league consistency remained elusive, the coach believes his side has earned the right to compete for a major trophy.
“The work we have done over the past months has prepared us for this moment,” Mette said. “We respect Kenya Police because they have had an excellent season, but we are going there believing that we can win.”
The Brewers enter the final as underdogs against a Police side that recently clinched the league title and completed a league double over Tusker. Yet confidence within the camp remains high.
Club captain Charles Momanyi believes the final provides the perfect platform for the team to show its true character.
“We have worked extremely hard throughout the season, and now we have one final opportunity to show what this team is capable of,” Momanyi said.
“Finals are won by teams that remain disciplined and focused for every minute, and that is exactly the mentality we are carrying into this match.”
Tusker have also received a timely boost ahead of the final, with defender Francis Oduor returning to full fitness. Apart from midfielder Vincent Owino, whose season ended following knee surgery, the rest of the squad is available for selection.
Momanyi said the healthy squad has created healthy competition as players battle for places in the starting lineup.
“Having almost everyone available gives us confidence because competition for places pushes every player to raise their level,” the defender said.
“This is not just another game for us. It is an opportunity to bring happiness to our supporters and everyone connected to the club.”
Kapaito has played a key role in Tusker's cup journey, scoring in the quarter-final victory over Ulinzi Stars and providing an assist against Bidco United.
The striker finished the league season with seven goals and one assist, although he admitted he expected more from himself.
“Honestly, it has not been the season I wanted because I am used to reaching double figures in goals,” Kapaito said.
“But every player goes through difficult phases. Last season in Tanzania I did not score, and this season I managed seven goals. I believe next season will be much better.”
As the countdown to the final continues, Mette has repeatedly emphasised the importance of concentration and mental strength.
“In finals, details make the difference,” the coach said.
“The team that stays focused from the first whistle to the last whistle usually gives itself the best chance of lifting the trophy.”
Kapaito echoed that determination and called on Tusker supporters to rally behind the team in what could be the defining match of their season.
“We want to finish the season with a trophy, and we know our fans have always stood by us,” he said.
“We urge them to come out in large numbers on Sunday and support us as we fight for this title.”
With silverware, continental football and pride all on the line, Tusker know they have one final chance to transform a disappointing season into a memorable one.
