Mombasa United in stern Vihiga test after emotional week

The trip to western Kenya, however, carries deep emotional weight. The squad made a stop in Lugari, Kakamega County, where they are laying to rest their assistant coach, the late Rix Kanuli, who passed away last week. After the burial ceremony on Friday, the team will proceed to Kisumu for Saturday’s National Super League clash.

Despite the emotional challenge, head coach Gilbert Selebwa insists his players are mentally prepared for the task ahead.

“Vihiga are not an easy side. They are coming from a strong away win, but we are ready,” Selebwa said, expressing confidence in his team’s resilience and fighting spirit.

The coach acknowledged the difficult balance between grief and competition but believes his players understand what is at stake.

“We are trying to kill two birds with one stone—laying our coach Kanuli to rest on Friday and then playing Vihiga on Saturday. It will come down to the mental strength of the players, but they know what is expected of them, and we are hopeful of a positive result away from home.”

Selebwa also pointed to the impact of recent reinforcements, revealing that the signing of eight new players has significantly boosted squad depth and competitiveness as the team pushes for NSL title contention.

“Depth is something we lacked earlier in the season. It creates competition and gives us more options in every match,” he added.

Off the pitch, Mombasa United received a timely boost after FKF awarded them three points and two goals following the abandonment of their fixture against Gucha, who declined to play after protesting a change in kick-off time.

Currently sitting third on the league table, level on points with MOFA FC and just two points behind leaders Migori Youth, Mombasa United head into the Vihiga clash knowing that every point could prove decisive in the title race.