Ulinzi Stars send head coach on compulsory leave amid poor run
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 16.03.26. | 15:17
The Soldiers have endured a torrid run in the ongoing campaign, a slump that has dragged the once-formidable side into the thick of the relegation battle
Four-time FKF Premier League champions Ulinzi Stars have sent head coach Stephen Ocholla on compulsory leave amid a torrid run that leaves them in serious threat of relegation.
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The Soldiers have endured a torrid run in the ongoing campaign, a slump that has dragged the once-formidable side into the thick of the relegation battle.
Ulinzi currently sit second from bottom on 19 points, just five better than bottom-placed Sofapaka FC, a position that has intensified pressure within the club’s hierarchy as the season edges toward its decisive stages.
Ocholla’s compulsory leave comes in the aftermath of a crushing 3-1 defeat to league leaders and record champions Gor Mahia, a result that stretched Ulinzi’s winless league run to nine matches and further deepened concerns about the club’s survival prospects in the top flight.
"Following the recent run of results, which have fallen short of the standards and expectations we have set for ourselves, the club acknowledges the disappointment surrounding our performances on the pitch.
Despite this difficult period, we recognise the continued dedication and commitment shown by the technical bench, particularly the Head Coach in striving to improve the team's performances.
After careful consideration, the club's management has taken the decision to give the Head Coach a short break to reflect and regroup as we work towards turning our results around," read a statement from Ulinzi Stars.
The military side had turned to Ocholla earlier in the season in a bid to steady the ship after a difficult start under former coach Dunstan Nyaudo.
Ocholla was appointed on Monday, 27 October 2025, marking his return to the club for a second stint, three years after his initial appointment in June 2021.
However, the hope of revival never materialised. Since taking charge four months ago, the former Ulinzi Stars captain has struggled to halt the club’s slide down the table, with the team sinking deeper into the dreaded relegation zone.
During his tenure, the former Harambee Stars midfielder managed just three wins and four draws while suffering eight defeats in the 15 league matches he oversaw, numbers that ultimately sealed his fate.
With relegation fears now looming large, Ulinzi faces the daunting task of orchestrating an immediate turnaround as they fight to claw their way out of danger and safeguard their long-standing status in the top tier.