Why Shabana coach fielded Harambee Stars midfielder despite fitness concerns
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 07.10.25. | 07:35
Head coach Peter Okidi explained that the technical bench and medical team were confident Michira was fit enough to start.
Shabana FC maintained their unbeaten start to the season after holding Tusker FC to a 1-1 draw in a match played on Sunday, 5 October at the Kasarani National Stadium.
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The result kept them level on points with Posta Rangers.
Both teams have seven points, but Shabana remain top on goal difference, having scored six goals and conceded three compared to Rangers’ four.
The Glamour Boys built their game around a strong midfield setup that started brightly before a setback in the 17th minute forced an early change.
Harambee Stars midfielder Brian Michira, who picked up an injury in their previous clash against Bandari, appeared to have aggravated it and was substituted early, with dreadlocked playmaker Bronson Nsubuga coming on in his place.
Nsubuuga made an immediate impact, setting up Austin Odongo for the opening goal in the 19th minute as Shabana continued to press forward.
Speaking after the match, head coach Peter Okidi explained that the technical bench and medical team were confident Michira was fit enough to start.
“The team and the medical staff were confident that he was 100% fit,” Okidi said.
He admitted, however, that Michira’s early exit disrupted their game plan, as much of Shabana’s rhythm and creativity flows through the midfield maestro.
“His early injury destroyed our game plan because this team is largely built around Michira. When he went off, it threw us off balance. I would not say we did not have a proper replacement, but you could see the difference,” Okidi added.
Despite the setback, the tactician praised Nsubuga for stepping up and filling Michira’s role effectively.
“The player who came in made an impact and even provided an assist,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Okidi noted that the upcoming international break would give his side time to regroup, refine their strategy, and allow injured players like Michira time to recover.
Shabana will next face Mathare United on Monday, 20 October, at the Gusii Stadium as they look to extend their dominance at the top of the table.
