APS Bomet coach Mafuta eyes bright start as NSL season kicks off

The former Vihiga Bullets FC tactician has expressed confidence in his squad after roping in 13 new players, who will be key in the team’s bid to replicate their dominant display in last season’s FKF Division One that saw them win the Zone B title.

The 13 include goalkeeper Salim Andale from Tusker Youth and striker Isaac Waliaula from Green Berets.

Other new signings include Kentrix Kipkemboi (Kapkatet Youth), Tony Naibei (West Kenya), Emmanuel Kemeli (Green Commandos) and Peter Masinde (Webuye Sportiff).

“At the moment we are prepared and I think we are ready. Our expectations as a team are that the team can perform well and climb into the top grade when it is over.”

APS Bomet FC will welcome Mombasa United FC to the Bomet Stadium on Saturday from 3pm.

Mombasa United executive director Nick Arunga on his side says the revamped team is ready for a flying start.

“The squad that was on the team last season, we have only three players left and this season we have been able to pick up some good young talents and add experienced players who we hope will help us in the 2024-2025 season which starts this weekend.”

Elsewhere, former FKF Premier League side Nzoia Sugar FC are set to lock horns with Fortune Sacco FC on their home turf Sudi Stadium on Saturday from 3pm.

Nzoia Sugar are out to fight their way back to the topflight football following their relegation last season while Fortune Sacco will have eyes set on back to back promotions. Fortune Sacco were 2023/24 Division One play off winners.

At Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, Naivas FC, who reached last season’s promotion-relegation playoffs but fell short, square off against MOFA FC on Saturday at 1pm, a fixture that will kick off the new campaign.

Luanda Villa SC face Kibera Black Stars FC at Mumboha Grounds, Luanda on Saturday.

The Black Stars are a storied NSL side with years of experience, while Luanda Villa on their second season have proven to be worthy opponents.

The action continues as Muhoroni Youth FC will start their NSL journey when they take on Dimba Patriots FC at Muhoroni Stadium.

Known for their passionate fan base and electric atmosphere, Muhoroni Youth will be desperate to kickstart their season with a win.

However, Dimba Patriots, a team filled with tenacity and a never-say-die attitude, will aim to spoil the home side’s ambitions.

Rounding off Saturday’s fixtures is Darajani Gogo FC versus Migori Youth FC clash at KIHBT Grounds in Ngong.