- Sofapaka head coach Ezekiel Akwana credits the team’s strong season to his belief in developing young players, a key factor in their success.
- Currently seventh in the league with 46 points and one game to go, Sofapaka have exceeded expectations.
- They close the season this Sunday against relegation-threatened Bidco United, aiming to finish on a high.
Sofapaka head coach Ezekiel Akwana has revealed that the secret behind his team’s impressive form this season lies in his unwavering belief in nurturing young talent- a strategy he says has paid off handsomely.
Unlike last season, when Batoto ba Mungu were battling to avoid relegation and only managed to survive through the playoffs, this campaign has seen an impressive turnaround.
Currently seventh on the league table with 46 points and one match remaining, Sofapaka have defied expectations.
With 11 victories, 13 draws, and only nine defeats, their stellar campaign has been a testament to Akwana’s leadership.
Inspiration from the club Chairman
Speaking exclusively to SportPesa Blog, the tactician credited the club’s chairman as the driving force behind their revival.
Since assuming the role in mid-January, Akwana has remained steadfast in executing the vision and objectives set upon his appointment.
What has been inspiring me this season is the way the boss has been running the team. You know, Sofapaka belongs to the church, and when you sit down with the boss and hear his vision, I think as a coach you feel motivated to work hard,” Akwana said.
I have been consistently working on my part, together with the technical bench, to make sure we reach our target as we discussed with the boss when I took over.”
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Akwana succeeded Robert Matano, who departed in January after overseeing 15 matches yielding just five wins and 21 points.
Under his leadership, however, the team has flourished, securing six wins, four losses, and seven draws in 18 matches, a marked improvement.
The former Mathare United stalwart has set his sights even higher, declaring that Sofapaka will challenge for the title next season or at the very least, a top-five finish.
My team is improving and still progressing. You see, last season we were in the relegation zone, and this season our goal was a top-eight finish – which we’ve achieved.
So I think next season we will be aiming for the top five. And you know, number one is always within reach, so we wiill give it everything next season. Even if we don’t finish first, I believe we won’t fall below fifth place,” he added.
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How Ezekiel Akwana has transformed Sofapaka’s fortunes
A key factor behind Akwana’s success has been his commitment to youth development. By giving young players opportunities, he has not only revitalized the squad but also laid the groundwork for a sustainable future.
I have been motivating my boys. I have been the source of their drive. I show them they are capable and that they can succeed.
The problem with Kenyan coaches is that we don’t trust young players. Personally, when I was coming up as a player at Mathare United in 1998, we were a young team and still won the Golden Cup.
That’s why I truly believe in young players. When you add a few experienced players to the mix, the young ones will give you their best. In terms of pace, they are unmatched. So let’s trust them, because modern football is all about youth.”
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Among the rising stars Akwana has integrated into the squad are 25-year-old sensation Rodgers Kipkemoi, Kenya U20 standout Baron Ochieng, 19-year-old Jack Onganya, and promising prospects like Edward “Ondimo” Omondi.
Sofapaka will wrap up their season this Sunday with a clash against relegation-threatened Bidco United, aiming to finish the campaign on a high note.
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