Pwani Oil FC has framed its heavy defeat in the FKF Cup as a strategic learning milestone, underscoring the role of competitive exposure in accelerating the club’s long-term development agenda.
The Regional League side exited the tournament at the Round of 64 stage following a 7-0 loss to Premier League outfit Kariobangi Sharks at the KPA Mbaraki Stadium on Saturday. Despite the margin, club officials and sponsors described the fixture as an investment in experience for the relatively young squad.
Head coach Paul Terry Kwoba said the encounter provided valuable benchmarking data for both players and the technical bench, offering insight into the performance standards required at the top tier of Kenyan football.
“It was a constructive experience for the boys. The technical team and players have learnt from the best,” Kwoba said after the match. “Considering we were playing an experienced team that is very active in the leagues, my boys did well. They were worthy opponents.”
For the lower-division side, facing a top-flight club in a competitive setting exposed players to the speed, tactical discipline and physical intensity that define Premier League football. Kwoba noted that such high-level matchups sharpen decision-making and build resilience — attributes he considers essential to the club’s progression strategy.
“These are the moments that build teams,” he added. “When you face strong opposition, you understand where you are and where you need to go. We will take what we have learnt, continue improving, and come back stronger.”
Team Manager Jeremiah Okaalo echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the squad’s determination and composure despite the disparity in league status. He said the team maintained its playing identity and approached the fixture with confidence.
“Very good competition against a Premier League side. The boys did their best; they played their game and they live to fight another day,” Okaalo said.
The club will now refocus on its Regional League campaign, where management believes the experience gained could translate into improved performance metrics in upcoming fixtures.
Backing the development narrative, title sponsors Pwani Oil Products Limited reaffirmed their commitment to long-term talent cultivation through sport. The company described the squad as being in a growth phase and positioned the cup experience as part of a broader investment in youth and community empowerment.
“As a company, we are committed to transforming the lives of the communities in which we operate, with sport promotion being among our key focal areas for talent development,” said Commercial Director Rajul Malde. “While the team exited the tournament earlier than expected, we remain proud of their resilience. Competing against top-flight opposition has provided an important learning opportunity for this young team to sharpen their skills and raise the overall quality of their game.”
The match underscores the widening competitive gap between regional and Premier League sides, while also highlighting the strategic importance sponsors are placing on structured player development as a pathway to long-term sustainability in Kenyan football.
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