Tusker FC head coach Julien Mette has hailed his side’s resilience and determination after guiding the Brewers to their first FKF MozzartBet Cup title in 10 years, describing the triumph as a reward for the collective effort and belief shown throughout a challenging season.
The French tactician watched his side produce a disciplined display to beat Kenya Police FC 2-1 in the final at the Kwale Stadium, with Ian Simiyu’s first-half brace proving decisive as Tusker lifted their fourth domestic Cup title and secured qualification for next season’s TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup.
For Mette, who took over midway through the season with the club struggling for consistency, the victory was particularly satisfying, not only because it delivered silverware but because it reflected the character his players have built over the past few months.
“It was a tough match but we had prepared well. We knew exactly what threat Police pose and we prepared to counter that. I was a bit hard on them (players) at halftime because we conceded the same way we had anticipated and I believe we should have done better,” Mette said after the final whistle.
Mette admitted there were moments when his side could have managed the game better, but he was delighted with the maturity and composure shown in protecting their lead.
“The most important thing in a final is the final score and I am happy for the team. I am happy for the players, the technical bench and the board who have all worked tirelessly to see this success,” the coach noted.
The triumph marks Mette’s first trophy since arriving at the club and ends a decade-long wait for Cup success, the Brewers having last lifted the competition in 2016. More importantly, it restores Tusker to the continental stage after several years away from African club competition.
“Tusker deserve to be at the top and winning trophies and I hope this trophy can be a new beginning for us,” Mette said.
The coach believes the victory should serve as a foundation for greater success, with the club now preparing for a demanding campaign that will include domestic and continental commitments.
“We are excited to be playing continental football next season and we hope to do well, not just for Tusker FC, but for Kenyan football as well. It is a great opportunity for us to represent the club and the country, and we will work hard to ensure we are competitive and make our supporters proud,” he added.
