NSL: Migori Youth seek top spot redemption as Gucha test awaits
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Reading Time: 3min | Sun. 22.02.26. | 09:31
Elsewhere, St. Sebastian Park in Murang’a will host a crucial relegation battle as Kabati Youth take on second-from-bottom Mwatate United
Migori Youth will return to action later today for the first time in over 150 days, not sitting at the summit of the National Super League (NSL) standings.
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The Awendo-based side was dislodged on Friday after Mombasa United staged a 2-1 comeback victory against Darajani Gogo to climb to the top of the table.
Migori now face a short trip to Gusii Stadium, where they will take on 12th-placed league newcomers Gucha Stars from 3:00 pm.
Under head coach Sammy Otulo, the border club knows that only a win will return them to the summit, albeit on goal difference, while any slip-up could further complicate matters, with Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) also firmly in the title race.
“We know the pressure the match comes with. Our away form has not been that good, but every match day is a chance to change things. We respect Gucha; they have a great coach and good players, but we need three points at this critical stage of the season,” Otulo told Mozzart Sport.
Migori head into the clash on a five-match unbeaten run, having beaten Nairobi City Stars, Luanda Villa, and Naivas, while drawing against Soy United and Kabati Youth.
However, their away form remains a major concern. In their last five matches on the road, Migori have managed just one win, a 4-2 triumph over Naivas in Nairobi.
They suffered defeats to MOFA (3-1), Kibera Black Stars (1-0), and Nzoia Sugar (1-0), alongside a draw against Soy United.
For Gucha Stars, the mood has slightly improved after a difficult run. The Kisii-based side, coached by Sammy Okoth, had managed just one win in ten matches before registering back-to-back victories, a 2-0 walkover against Mully Children’s Family (MCF) and a 2-0 win over Nzoia Sugar.
Despite that resurgence, Gucha’s home record paints a worrying picture.
In their last five home outings, they have secured just one "win," the walkover, while losing 1-0 to Kabati Youth, 1-0 to Kibera Black Stars, and 3-2 to MOFA. They also shared spoils in a 2-2 draw against Nairobi City Stars.
The reverse fixture ended in a 1-0 victory for Migori Youth at Awendo Green Stadium, and Otulo’s men will hope to complete a double as the title race gathers pace.
Kabati host Mwatate in a relegation six-pointer
Elsewhere, St. Sebastian Park in Murang’a will host a crucial relegation battle as Kabati Youth take on second-from-bottom Mwatate United.
It will mark Kabati’s first home league match at the venue since earning promotion, following the closure of Thika Stadium for renovations, which had served as their base for the past six months.
Kabati sits just above the relegation zone, level on points with Kisumu All Stars, who occupy the final drop spot.
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Coached by Haji Bilal, the side has blown hot and cold this season and will be eager to bounce back after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Mombasa United.
Their home form offers encouragement. Kabati have dropped maximum points only three times at home this campaign, registering wins against Kisumu All Stars, Soy United, and Darajani Gogo.
In contrast, Mwatate have struggled badly on their travels.
The Evans Mafuta-coached side has managed just one away win, against fellow relegation battlers Vihiga United, while losing six and drawing three.
They sit 19th with 15 points and are running out of time to turn their season around.
In other matches, Soy United hosts Naivas at ASK Eldoret Showgrounds, Luanda Villa welcomes FC Talanta, while Equity Bank will close the match week against Kibera Black Stars at Mashuuru Complex in Kajiado.