Nairobi, Kenya – Mogadishu City Club delivered a commanding 2-0 victory over Kenya Police FC in the second leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary round on Sunday at the Nyayo National Stadium, but their continental dream ended in heartbreak as they were eliminated on the away goals rule after a 3-3 aggregate scoreline.
Both legs of the tie were played at the same venue in Nairobi, as Somalia currently lacks a CAF-approved stadium. Mogadishu City had technically “hosted” the first leg at Nyayo as well, losing 3-1 — a result that left them with an uphill battle heading into the return fixture.
Determined to overturn the deficit, Mogadishu City started aggressively and found their breakthrough in the 33rd minute when Marsis slotted home after a well-orchestrated attacking move. The Somali champions maintained their momentum after halftime and doubled their lead in the 55th minute through Ibrahim Bangura, who coolly converted from the penalty spot to bring the aggregate score to 3-3.
With renewed belief, Mogadishu City pressed relentlessly for a decisive third goal, but Kenya Police held firm defensively to protect their advantage. Despite winning on the day, Mogadishu City were knocked out on the away goals rule — a cruel twist given that both matches were played on neutral ground.
The result leaves Mogadishu City with pride in their performance but regret over the defensive frailties in the first leg. Their spirited fightback, achieved without a true home advantage, earned praise from supporters and analysts who hailed their growing competitiveness on the continental stage.
Kenya Police advance to the next round, while Mogadishu City bow out — victorious on the night, but undone by technicalities.