Okidi targets NSL glory as Mombasa United eye crucial Migori test

Mombasa United players celebrate at Gusii Stadium on Sunday/ANGWENYI GICHANA

Newly appointed Mombasa United coach Peter Okidi has vowed to guide the coastal side to National Super League (NSL) glory after his unveiling on Wednesday evening. Okidi replaces Gilbert Selebwa, who parted ways with the promotion-chasing side two weeks ago.

The former Shabana FC tactician will take charge of his first match on Sunday in a high-stakes top-of-the-table clash against leaders Migori Youth. “I thank the management of Mombasa United for allowing me to finish this project,” said Okidi.

The coach, who also serves as assistant coach of the national U17 team, expressed confidence in his squad. “We want to finish the season on top of the league. I want to assure the Mombasa United fans that this is their season to qualify for the top-tier league. We shall work extra hard to ensure that we meet our objectives,” he added.

Mombasa United have been boosted by the return of striker Nehemiah Onchiri ahead of the crucial tie. The former Shabana forward has scored seven goals and provided seven assists this season, but has been sidelined for the past two months owing to an injury.

“Migori is a big game for us. We know what is at stake, and we have to be ready. I am feeling good, I am back, and I want to help the team get the result,” said Onchiri.

The striker is also targeting a return to the top flight. “I want to go back to the Premier League. That is the number one target. Personally, I want to finish with double figures. Afcon is coming, and I just want to make Mombasa proud,” he added.

Mombasa United head into the match with a formidable home record, unbeaten in 15 matches, having won all of them, scored 49 goals, and kept 14 clean sheets. In the reverse fixture, league top scorer Syphas Otieno netted a hat-trick as Migori Youth edged Mombasa United 3-2 in a thrilling encounter.

Otieno has since returned from injury and is expected to feature. Migori Youth come into the match in strong form following a 4-1 victory over Nzoia Sugar, while Mombasa United secured a narrow 1-0 win against Gucha Stars in their last outing.

NSL Fixtures

Friday

Vihiga Uted vs 3K FC (Mumboha grounds)

Mofa vs Talanta (Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, Kisumu)

Saturday

Naivas vs Kisumu All Stars (KIHBT Grounds)

Kibera Black Stars vs Gucha Stars (Gems Cambridge)

MCF vs Soy United ( MCF Complex)

Fortune Sacco vs Mwatate (Wanguru Stadium)

Sunday

Kabati Youth vs Nzoia (SportPesa)

Luanda Villa vs Gogo (Mumboha)

Equity Bank vs City Stars (Mashuru Complex)

Mombasa Utd vs Migori Youth (Mombasa SC)