Odhiambo calls for strong finish as SEAL host Mara Sugar

Both teams head into the Match week 34 encounter locked in a fierce battle to secure a place in the league's top tier.

While latest standings show Murang'a Seal currently in 10th  place with 44 points and Mara Sugar closely trailing, the final match of the 2025/2026 campaign represents a crucial  scenario to cement a spot in the upper half of the table.

Speaking in a post-training briefing ahead of the weekend clash, the former Harambee Stars midfielder emphasised on the immense psychological advantage a vocal home crowd gives his players. 

Odhiambo acknowledged the emotional rollercoaster the club’s vibrant supporters have endured during a demanding second leg of the season.

He expressed profound gratitude to the loyal fans who have remained steadfast despite a series of narrow losses and humbling defeats earlier following heavy shifts on the technical bench.

"We need them, we need them because our players need that support. There are times we haven’t gotten results and we’ve disappointed them, but we thank those who have stuck with the team."

The tactician further assured that the team views the final clash as a debt of gratitude owed to the fans, saying that the only repayment for the fans' sacrifice throughout the season is a commanding victory and maximum points.

"The only thing we can give them is three points by winning and making them happy because they sacrifice a lot to be here. It is our responsibility to entertain them and make sure they leave the stadium happy."

The matchup carries historical weight and a strong desire for redemption for the visiting Mara Sugar.

In their previous league meeting in the first leg during Match week 15, Murang’a Seal walked away with a dominant 3-1 victory on the road.

However, under Odhiambo’s stewardship, who took the reins to guide the team through a challenging transitional phase, the squad has had to dig deep.

Despite mid-season setbacks, the frontline, sparked by youthful forward Michael Macharia and the inspiring form of captain Joe 'King Joe' Waithira, has given the team the tactical firepower to dream of a strong conclusion. 

Waithira’s spectacular, unstoppable left-footed strikes, including his recent decisive match-winner against Kakamega Homeboyz, have proven that Seal possesses the firepower to dismantle stubborn defenses.

With safety from the relegation scrap guaranteed weeks ago due to strong early-season form, the handbrake is expected to come completely off for the Murang'a-based side this Sunday. 

A victory would not only propel Seal firmly ahead of Mara Sugar but will potentially leapfrog other mid-table rivals, giving Odhiambo a massive statement wins to wrap up his introductory stint at the helm.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00PM in Murang’a, with the club calling on the entirety of the "Seal nation" to pack the stands, bring the noise, and act as the crucial 12th man.