There are moments in football when statistics only paint half the picture. To truly understand the pulse of Kenyan football, you have to look beyond the scoreline—the real drama unfolds in the stories behind the goals, in each stride taken by a team determined to write a new chapter. That is exactly the narrative surrounding Kakamega Homeboyz as they continue to defy odds, recently outshining Kariobangi Sharks with a 2-0 victory in the FKF Premier League at Dandora Stadium.
The turning point for Kakamega Homeboyz
This wasn’t just another notch in the win column; it was a testament to experience outmatching exuberance. Head coach Francis Baraza, a figure steadily becoming synonymous with the transformation at Homeboyz, spoke candidly after the match about what tipped the scales in their favour. His side, affectionately known as Abana Abeingo, faced off against a much younger Sharks outfit managed by William Muluya.
Baraza observed, “Sharks have fairly young players compared to us, and so when you give an experienced player time and space, they will know how to utilise it, while for young players, they will be excited with keeping possession, and that was the difference.” It is a subtle but powerful explanation—a master class in how football often hinges on decision-making, not just raw talent.
Efficiency over possession
Some matches are dictated by tactics, and this was one of them. While Sharks enjoyed plenty of the ball, it was Homeboyz’s efficient, purpose-driven play that prevailed. Baraza broke it down: “Sharks had many touches on the ball while for us, we needed two, three touches to reach the final third and create goal-scoring opportunities, as was the case in the second goal.” That clinical approach is not just a tactical choice—it’s a reflection of the seasoned mentality Baraza has cultivated within his squad.
When compact defensive structure, quick transitions, and patient build-ups become the norm, you know you’re watching a unit that understands its strengths. For Homeboyz, it meant recognizing that sometimes less is more—focusing energy not on possession, but on conversion. That’s how big games are won in this league.
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A test of endurance and character
If the team’s resurgence was only about tactics, it would be impressive enough. But a true sports story isn’t just told in passing patterns or possession stats. The emotional core of Homeboyz’s recent surge is their resilience. The team has crisscrossed Kenya—Mombasa, Kakamega, Nairobi—with rarely a moment to rest. “We have been on the road mostly in recent weeks, including travelling to Mombasa, back to Kakamega and then back and forth to Nairobi, which is so tiresome, and despite the fatigue, my players gave their all,” Baraza reflected, a hint of pride coloring his words.
Fatigue is an invisible opponent in football, one not tracked by cameras or noted in the final whistle, but its effects are felt in every muscle and every moment where a player must summon inhuman will to give more. The Homeboyz squad has embraced the grind, outlasting not only their rivals but also the strains of constant travel—a true measure of their commitment and camaraderie.
A leader who changed the narrative
Baraza’s tenure at Kakamega Homeboyz began with modest ambitions. “When I joined, my target was to ensure the team remains in the league. From our performances, the discussion has changed, and so as it is said in football circles, ‘Let everyone win their games’.”
No longer content to simply survive, Homeboyz now stand fourth in the league standings. Under Baraza, they have achieved an unbeaten home record—a remarkable turnaround for a team that stumbled out of the blocks at the season’s start. It’s an evolution defined by leadership, belief, and unity, with Baraza crediting not just technical skill, but the “management, my technical bench, the players and fans” for driving their successful run.
Rewriting expectations
This is how it’s done – Homeboyz have become one of the Premier League’s most consistent teams under pressure,
this is how it’s done squared – their collective effort and unity have set new standards for perseverance and professionalism,
this is how it’s done cubed – their transformation on the field mirrors a cultural shift off it, one that celebrates collaboration and resilience under the guidance of Baraza.
The road ahead
After ensuring an unbeaten streak at home, Baraza is now eyeing the next frontier—staying undefeated away. The belief within the camp is palpable. Each game for Kakamega Homeboyz is more than an opportunity for three points; it’s a canvas for proving to themselves and their fans that their ceiling is higher than anyone expected at the season’s start. In the journey from survival to contention, the lessons of experience and endurance have set Homeboyz apart.
Kenyan football thrives on stories like these—stories of teams that dig in, adapt, and rise above adversity. This chapter for Kakamega Homeboyz is still being written, but what is already clear is that their journey will be remembered not just for the goals scored, but for the indomitable spirit that made them possible.
