Kenya Police Bullets’ CECAFA dreams end in penalty heartbreak
By Kenneth Mwenda, September 14, 2025Kenya Police Bullets saw their hopes of reaching the CECAFA Women’s Champions League qualifiers final end in heartbreak after losing 4-2 on penalties to Tanzania’s JKT Queens at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Sunday, September 14, 2025.
The Bullets started the match strongly, taking the lead in the 18th minute when Ugandan forward Margaret Kunihira calmly converted a penalty won by Emily Kemunto Morang’a.
This was the first goal JKT Queens had conceded in the tournament, having kept clean sheets in their earlier games.
JKT Queens responded before halftime. In the 39th minute, a defensive lapse allowed Jamila Rajabu to head home from a free kick after goalkeeper Annedy Kundu failed to clear the ball. The equaliser left the score tied at 1-1 heading into the break.
In the second half and through extra time, Police Bullets dominated possession. Kunihira made several surging runs down the flank, while Zaina Namuleme directed play from midfield. The Bullets created multiple opportunities, with Morang’a and Namuleme coming close, but they could not convert their chances into a winning goal.
Penalties end bullets’ run
With the match still level at 1-1 after 120 minutes, the game went to a penalty shootout. Police Bullets stumbled early as Morang’a and Leah Andiema missed their kicks. JKT Queens capitalised on the opportunity, converting all four of their penalties. The flawless penalty display handed JKT Queens the win and a place in the final.
The defeat ended Kenya Police Bullets’ unbeaten run in the qualifiers. Despite the setback, the team displayed courage and creativity throughout the tournament, showing their ability to challenge strong opposition. The Bullets will now prepare for the third-place play-off against Kampala Queens, a chance to end their campaign on a positive note.
The experience gained in these high-pressure matches will be valuable as Police Bullets aim to compete more strongly in future CAF competitions.