Kizza denies Homeboyz as Nairobi United fight back

Homeboyz striker Oliver Machaka takes on John Otieno of Naibois during their match at Moi Stadium, Kasarani/HANDOUT 

A second-half equaliser from Mustapha Kizza ensured Nairobi United salvaged a 2-2 draw against Kakamega Homeboyz in a Kenyan Premier League fixture at Moi Stadium, Kasarani on Wednesday.

The visitors made a bright start and took the lead in the 15th minute when Oliver Machaka finished from close range after a well-worked move down the right flank, exposing Nairobi United’s defensive gaps early in the contest.

Nairobi United responded with composure and gradually grew into the match, equalising in the 29th minute through Michael Karamor, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to bring the hosts level and restore balance to the contest.

Kakamega Homeboyz, however, regained control just before the break. In the 41st minute, Machaka struck again to complete his brace, finishing off a quick attacking move to give the visitors a 2-1 lead heading into half-time.

Kakamega Homeboyz head coach Patrick Odhiambo said his side handled the early setback well. “We showed good response after going behind and managed the first half the way we wanted,” he said.

Nairobi United emerged stronger after the interval, pushing higher up the pitch and committing more players forward in search of an equaliser. Their persistence eventually paid off in the 70th minute when Kizza found the back of the net, finishing calmly to level the score at 2-2.

Nairobi United head coach Geoffrey Oduor said his team remained composed despite trailing for long spells.

“We stayed patient in the second half and took our chances when they came,” he said.

Homeboyz had earlier created opportunities to extend their lead but were unable to convert, leaving the match finely poised entering the final stages.

Odhiambo admitted his side could have managed the closing moments better. “We needed to manage the last phase better, especially after leading. That is something we have to improve,” he said.

The hosts continued to press late on, but clear chances were limited as both teams settled for a point.

Oduor said the performance offered encouragement. “The players showed the right attitude after the break. It is a result we can build on,” he said.

Odhiambo added: “There were good moments in our play, particularly in how we created chances in the first half.”