Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) showcased its prowess at the 16th Edition of the Kenya Universities Sports Federation (KUSF) National Playoffs 2024, held from March 29th to March 31st at the university’s grounds. The event witnessed a thrilling display of talent and sportsmanship across various disciplines, with MMUST emerging as a dominant force.
MMUST’s stellar performance across soccer, hockey, handball, basketball, netball, and volleyball left a mark of excellence, reaffirming its status as a powerhouse in university sports. With 33 universities competing, the competition was fierce, but MMUST rose to the occasion, securing victories and earning accolades across multiple sports categories.
The soccer comeback
After a four-year absence from the prestigious Kenya Universities Sports Federation (KUSF) National Playoffs, the men’s soccer team representing Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) made a resounding national comeback at the 16th Edition of the tournament held on their home turf. With a determination to reclaim their glory and clinch the coveted title, MMUST’s soccer men showcased resilience, skill, and unwavering determination throughout the competition.
MMUST was drawn together with Zetech University and Lukenya University in Pool C. Lukenya University would later just before the tournament, withdraw from the championship. It was then replaced by Technical University of Kenya (TUK). MMUST’s strategic play and determination on the field propelled them to success, managing to deliver standout performances and securing top position in pool C.
Having missed out on the last two editions of the tournament, MMUST’s soccer men entered the 16th Edition with a renewed sense of purpose. The team’s absence in previous years only fueled their desire to make a statement on the national stage, and they were determined to leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.
From the onset, it was evident that MMUST’s soccer men meant business. Under the guidance of their experienced coaching staff, the team exhibited a high level of discipline, tactical prowess, and unity on the field. With each match, they grew stronger, building momentum and confidence with every goal scored and every victory secured.
Facing stiff competition from universities across the country, MMUST’s soccer men rose to the occasion, delivering standout performances that captivated spectators and opponents alike. Their strategic gameplay, precise passing, and clinical finishing set them apart as a force to be reckoned with in the tournament.
As the competition progressed, MMUST’s soccer men showcased their ability to adapt and thrive under pressure. Whether it was overcoming tough opponents or bouncing back from setbacks, the team displayed resilience and determination that reflected their unwavering commitment to success.
In the quarterfinal, the team edged out Taita Taveta University 3-0 sending shock waves to their next opponents at the semi final stage.
In the semi final stage of the tournament, MMUST’s soccer men faced their toughest challenge after it was confirmed that the team was to meet Kenyatta University. MMUST and Kenyatta University are sworn soccer rivals at the university stage. The semifinal match however did not end with regulation time thus prompting a penalty shootout as prescribed by the KUSF 2024 rules and regulations. As a result of the soggy grounds and the dawning darkness at the Kakamega Approved School, the penalty shootouts were rescheduled for 31st March.
The match would thereafter rescheduled to Mumias Complex in what the technical committee and the security organs labelling the Kakamega Approved School as unsafe for participants as a result of a solid fanbase for the varsity side. At the penalty shootout, Kenyatta University were the luckiest side as they scored 4-3 to the disadvantage of the MMUST side.
With the title race out of question, MMUST were drawn with Karatina University for the 3rd Place Playoffs at Mukumu Boys Highschool pitch where the boys decided to put everything on the line, leaving nothing to chance. With sheer grit and determination, they delivered a masterful performance that culminated in a well-deserved victory, clinching the third spot and reclaiming their status as a dominant force in the KUSF National Playoffs.
The triumphant return of MMUST’s soccer men at the 16th Edition of the KUSF National Playoffs is a testament to their resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. After a four-year absence, the team’s remarkable comeback not only reaffirms their prowess on the field but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country. MMUST’s soccer men have once again etched their names in the annals of university sports history, giving a glimpse of a comeback that is likely going to dominate the university games.
