The 2026 Mozzart Bet Cup has reached a decisive stage following the quarter-final draw conducted on Thursday, April 23, setting up a series of high-stakes encounters as the race for silverware intensifies.

After weeks of thrilling action, the competition has been trimmed down to eight teams, with seven top-flight sides advancing alongside Division One surprise package Mfalme FC.

The Round of 16 delivered a blend of expected results and underdog drama, highlighting the tournament’s growing competitiveness.

Among the standout fixtures is a heavyweight clash between two of Kenya’s most successful clubs, as Ulinzi Stars take on Tusker FC. The tie pits the disciplined soldiers against the brewers in what promises to be a tightly contested affair.

Defending champions Nairobi United will face 2024 finalists KCB in another blockbuster showdown, while Bandari FC are set to battle Mfalme FC, whose giant-killing run has made them one of the most intriguing stories of this year’s tournament.

However, the headline fixture sees 2024 champions Kenya Police lock horns with Shabana FC. The clash is expected to produce fireworks, with Shabana holding the psychological edge after beating Police in two recent league meetings.

The tournament bracket also outlines a potentially dramatic path to the final. The winner between Kenya Police and Shabana will face either Bandari or Mfalme in the semi-finals, while the victor of Nairobi United versus KCB will meet the winner between Ulinzi Stars and Tusker FC.

Reaching this stage has required resilience and quality. Nairobi United secured their spot with a 2-0 win over Posta Rangers, while Kenya Police edged past BB Bread FC 1-0. Ulinzi Stars knocked out Kakamega Homeboyz by a similar scoreline, Bandari FC eased past 3K FC 2-0, and Mfalme FC stunned Murang’a Seal with a dominant 5-0 victory.

The quarter-finals are scheduled for the weekend of May 2 and 3, with the final set for June 14 at Kwale Stadium.

Beyond the prestige, the stakes are high. The winner will pocket Ksh3 million, while the runner-up earns Ksh2 million. Third and fourth-placed teams will receive Ksh1.5 million and Ksh1 million respectively, with individual awards also up for grabs.

Crucially, the champion will earn the right to represent Kenya in CAF interclub competition, adding continental significance to an already fiercely contested tournament.