Highway warned not to underestimate underdogs at Nationals

Abuga says the unfamiliar faces at the national stage pose a great danger and the team must treat all their matches with the seriousness they deserve if they are to win the title.

The experienced tactician expects a tough outing against them since they have not faced them before.

“This year’s competition has a lot of new teams and you can’t expect an easy ride from them because we don’t know them tactically. We expect a tough challenge but we will give our all,” Abuga told Citizen Digital.

However, Abuga is confident they can reclaim the title after relinquishing it last year to St. Joseph’s Boys Kitale.

“We are coming into this championship having gained experience by playing in the County League unlike in 2024 when we won our maiden title. We are counting on the experience and endurance that we have gained to give us an advantage over our opponents, many of whom have not been playing at the level we have.”

Highway earned their national ticket after defeating Upper Hill 4-3 in post match penalties in a closely contested final earlier this month, following a barren draw in regular time.

The former champions have been gearing up for the national fiesta with intense training and a series of friendlies to ensure they are in the best shape possible.

“The boys have trained well and are in good shape. We’ve only had one injury in our goalkeeping department but we have found a replacement. I believe the boys are ready to go all out for the title,” said Abuga.

Highway has also been sharpening its striking department and hopes to be ruthless in front of goal after being forced into extra time in the regional final by Upper Hill after firing blanks.

The 2024 champions headline Pool A which also consists of Nyanza region giants St. Mary’s Yala, Tononoka from the Coast and Rift Valley’s Menengai High School.