Nyundo FC Pushout Nabadda on Penalties to Reach Semi-Finals

By Mbungu Harrison

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Nyundo FC booked their place in the Sisi Ni Dola Cup semi-finals after a 4-2 penalty shootout victory against Nabadda FC following a 1-1 draw in regulation time on Thursday (August 6).

Joash Ndela gave Nyundo an early lead in the 4th minute from the penalty spot, but Nabadda were level just 17 minutes later through an Ahmed Mohamed own goal. Neither side could find a winner forcing the tie to spot kicks.

Under the tutelage of Swaleh Abdalla, Nyundo created several chances but failed to convert while Nabadda were repeatedly denied by Nyundo goalkeeper Francis Katana who proved the hero in the shootout.

“I was prepared psychologically to save penalties. I have been training for it and it has bore fruits,” Katana said after the match.

Katana, who also turns out for Bandari Youth, made crucial penalty saves to send Nyundo through to semis.

“We knew it would come down to mentality. The boys kept fighting and I am proud of how we responded.” he added.

Coach Swaleh Abdalla said the focus now shifts to the semi-finals as Nyundo chase the Ksh1 million grand prize.

“It has been tough. We are not hitting training camp immediately to prepare for our semi-final match. We know it’s not easy but we will prove our opponents wrong,” Abdalla said.