The Round of 32 of the 2026 Mozzart Bet Cup takes centre stage this weekend, with Shabana FC hosting Muhoroni Youth FC at Gusii Stadium in a high-stakes clash on Saturday.
For Shabana — popularly known as Tore Bobe — the tie represents a chance to bounce back after a bruising 5–1 league defeat to AFC Leopards earlier this week.
The heavy loss exposed defensive weaknesses and left sections of the club’s passionate fan base frustrated. However, Shabana captain George “Dizzo” Onyango believes the cup fixture offers the perfect opportunity to respond.
“We cannot hide from the result against Leopards,” Onyango admitted. “It hurt us, and it hurt the supporters, but football always gives you another chance.”
The skipper insisted the Mozzart Bet Cup remains a serious target for the Kisii-based club. “This competition is not a side show for us. We respect it, we want it, and we are preparing seriously for it,” he said.
Onyango warned that knockout football leaves no room for mistakes, stressing the importance of focus from the first whistle. “In the cup, one mistake can send you home. There is no time to correct things next weekend. You either show up or you pack your bags.”
Despite Muhoroni Youth competing outside the top tier, Onyango cautioned his teammates against underestimating their opponents. “People think that because they are in the lower division, it will be easy. That is dangerous thinking,” he said.
“They have nothing to lose, and that makes them very dangerous.” Muhoroni advanced to this stage after eliminating MOFA in the Round of 64 and are expected to arrive in Kisii highly motivated.
“They will come here believing this is their final,” Onyango added. “We must match that energy from the first minute.” Shabana will also rely on their passionate home support to create a daunting atmosphere at Gusii Stadium.
“Our fans are our twelfth player,” Onyango said. “They travel everywhere, they sing for ninety minutes, and they never stop believing.” He acknowledged recent disappointments but called for unity between the team and supporters. “We are sorry for the performances that did not meet expectations, but this team is fighting. The effort is there, and we will correct our mistakes.”
Shabana are targeting a deep run in the tournament, with the winner earning Kenya’s slot in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Elsewhere, defending champions Kenya Police FC face TBM Health, while record league champions Gor Mahia take on giant killers BB Bread at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
An all-Kenyan Premier League clash between Bidco United and Tusker FC also promises fireworks as teams battle for a place in the Round of 16. Both sides are hovering in the top half of the standings, making it one of the most evenly balanced ties of the round.
True to tradition, the Mozzart Bet Cup continues to deliver classic underdog narratives. Non-league outfit Kuta Collection have captured attention after a dramatic penalty shootout triumph over Al-Azizia.
They now prepare to face KSG Ogopa with belief surging. University teams are also chasing headlines, as Zetech Titans face KCB FC, while KU Hardnuts square off against Kariobangi Sharks.
These fixtures underline the tournament’s unique charm — a platform where grassroots ambition collides with established pedigree.
The Round of 32 promises drama, passion, and high stakes across Kenya, setting the stage for what could be a tournament full of surprises.
