- Murang’a SEAL Set to Face Bidco United in Machakos at 3.00PM.
- Ulinzi Stars to Face Mara Sugar at Dandora Stadium 1.00PM.
- Mathare United battle Mathare Kariobangi Sharks in the slum derby at 4:00 PM
In form, Murang’a Seals will aim to continue from where they left off last year as they seek their fourth consecutive victory when they face struggling Bidco United on Sunday, January 12, at 3:00 PM at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos County.
Additionally, this will mark John Njogu’s fourth match in charge of the SEALS, as he also pursues his fourth win since taking the helm.
While Njogu’s side remains optimistic about maintaining their winning momentum, Bidco, currently in 17th place on the table, will be eager to secure their first victory in three matches.
They recently triumphed over Gor Mahia with a narrow 1-0 win but followed it up with a 3-0 loss to Police FC, a 2-1 defeat to Tusker FC, and a 2-0 setback against Sofapaka.
Antony Akhulia’s side has accumulated 14 points this season, from three wins, five draws, and seven losses.
Play here and stand a chance of winning the over Ksh 398 million SportPesa Mega Jackpot
Last season, the two teams shared the spoils in a 0-0 draw in the first round, but Murang’a SEALS claimed victory in their second encounter.
This clash is expected to be both thrilling and hard-fought, as one team seeks to improve its position on the log, while the other aims to collect three vital points to lift them out of relegation danger.
ALSO READ: Peerless Shabana overpower Tusker as Posta Rangers score late to sink Nairobi City Stars
Meanwhile, in Nairobi, football fans will enjoy a doubleheader, as two exciting fixtures unfold at the Dandora Stadium.
Ulinzi Stars vs Mara Sugar
At 1:00 PM, Ulinzi Stars will host league debutants Mara Sugar. Both teams have struggled this season and will be determined to improve their performances as they face off in their first encounter of the year.
After seven winless matches, Ulinzi Stars, managed by Dastun Nyaudo, secured a 2-1 victory over Nairobi City Stars, ending their poor run on a positive note.
They will be eager to build on that momentum and climb from their current 14th-place standing, with 16 points from three wins, seven draws, and five losses.
In contrast, George Midenyo’s Mara Sugar, in 10th place with 19 points, will be aiming for their second win after securing just one victory in their last eight matches. In their most recent outing, they were defeated 4-3 by league leaders KCB, who made a dramatic comeback.
This will be the first meeting between these two teams, and both sides will look to make history with a victory.
ALSO READ: SportPesa Mega Jackpot goes over 398 million
Mathare United Vs Kariobangi Sharks
The third and final match of Game Week 17 will feature a derby between Mathare United and Kariobangi Sharks at 4:00 PM at the same venue.
Mathare United, currently in 12th place with 19 points, will look to build on their recent 1-0 win over Shabana United, ending a five-match winless streak.
With head coach John Kamau away on national duty with the Harambee Stars, assistant coach Mohammed Muchula will take charge on Sunday.
Muchula believes the team has been improving since training resumed at the end of last year, highlighting the players’ dedication and positive attitude.
“Since training resumed at the end of last year, the sessions have been intense and competitive. Every player has shown the right attitude,” Muchula said to the club media.
ALSO READ: Gor Mahia not hiring new foreign head coach at the moment – Rachie
Mathare captain Elly Asieche also emphasized the significance of the match, describing it as an exciting encounter.
“Games like these are always intense, and I look forward to them because the players know the ball. It’s a match that people enjoy watching,” Asieche stated.
On the other hand, William Muluya’s Kariobangi Sharks have struggled, securing just one win in their last 11 matches. They are currently in 13th place with 18 points, and their performances have been hampered by injuries to key players.
This match promises to be a fierce contest, with both clubs fighting for supremacy in the derby.
