KPL: Nairobi United eye confidence boost in midweek Tusker test

The fixture comes at a crucial time for the league newcomers, who are looking to climb away from the lower half of the table despite a congested schedule.

Speaking after Nairobi United’s recent 1-1 draw against Murang’a, Muyoti praised his players’ response following a difficult run of results, highlighting the importance of rediscovering confidence.

“I’d like to thank the boys for the effort they put in. We were on a losing streak, but we managed to score, and that brings back the confidence of the team,” said Muyoti. He noted that his side pressed well early in the match and created several chances, even though defensive lapses denied them all three points.

With Tusker sitting second on the table and riding a three-match winning streak, Muyoti expects a stern test but remains optimistic.

“On Wednesday we’re expecting a tough match. Tusker has found some stability,” he said. “We believe we can score, but the big question is whether we can defend well as a team and avoid the mistakes we’ve been making.”

The Nairobi United coach admitted the pressure is mounting, with his side currently 12th on the log, but stressed the importance of focus and caution.

“It’s a very important game. If we lose, we risk going deeper down the table. We have to stay focused and make sure that if we score, we defend well and stay in contention,” he added.

Muyoti also acknowledged the physical and mental strain caused by fixture congestion, pointing to squad depth as a key factor, while confirming that recent knocks picked up by players are not serious.

Goalkeeper Ernest Mohammed, who recently made his debut, echoed the team’s determination ahead of the Tusker encounter. Despite conceding in his first appearance, the keeper described the experience as special and motivating.

“It was a very good feeling to make my debut. I was prepared because I’ve been training day in, day out,” said Mohammed, who also contributed going forward. “When the opportunity came, I just had to grab it.”

Looking ahead, Mohammed has set personal targets and is eyeing a breakthrough performance against the Brewers.

“I’m hoping to get my first clean sheet against Tusker and win,” he said. “My target is 15 clean sheets this season, and I’m ready to work extra to achieve that.”

Nairobi United, who are also juggling CAF Confederation Cup duties, face a formidable challenge against a Tusker side in top form, but the confidence within the camp suggests they are ready to compete.