Africa-Press – Kenya. Vihiga Queens head coach Boniface Nyamunyamu believes his team has what it takes to reclaim the Women’s Premier League (KWPL) title this season.
Nyamunyamu said improved depth, strong early form and renewed motivation within the camp are key ingredients in their charge.
After guiding the four-time champions to a third-place finish last season with 41 points, eight behind champions Kenya Police Bullets, Nyamunyamu said this year’s campaign feels different.
“We’ve built a stronger, more balanced team. The competition for places is high, and that pushes everyone to perform better,” he said. “We’re more confident and focused than before, and that gives me the belief that we can go all the way.”
Vihiga Queens have opened the 2025–26 season dominantly, securing three consecutive wins — 3–0 against Bungoma Queens, 3–1 over Kibera Soccer Ladies, and 6–0 against Kisumu-based Kisped — before earning a 1–1 draw with Ulinzi Starlets last weekend.
That run has lifted them to joint-second place on the log with 10 points, just two behind early leaders Police Bullets.
Nyamunyamu said the bright start has boosted morale and reinforced his players’ belief.
“Winning early games is important; it builds confidence. The girls are motivated and are starting to understand the system we want to play,” he noted.
Vihiga’s confidence also stems from a series of strategic signings that have added experience and international quality to the squad.
The team recruited eight new players, including Tanzanian forward Irene Madalina from Yanga, midfielders Noel Shilachilo and Georgina Mulati from Fountain Gate Princess and a Ugandan trio of Anita Namata, Sharifah Kabiite and Damaris Matama.
Goalkeepers Irene Makhungu (from Mombasa Olympics) and Abskonoita Shihafu (from Gor Queens) have also strengthened the defensive setup.
“The new players have settled in quickly. They’ve brought new energy and quality to the squad. We’re more unpredictable now, and that’s a big advantage,” said Nyamunyamuh.
Another source of optimism for the coach is the experience gained by three of his players — Martha Karani Amunyolete, Irene Madalina, and goalkeeper Mercy Akoth — who were part of the Harambee Starlets team that recently made history by qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
“Their exposure at the international level has lifted the entire squad,” he said. “They’ve come back more mature, more confident, and that energy has spread to the rest of the team.”
Despite a tough upcoming fixture against Ulinzi Starlets at Moi Stadium, Kisumu, Nyamunyamu remains unfazed, insisting consistency will be the key to success.
“Ulinzi are a strong side, and we respect them. But we’ll focus on our game, use our home advantage, and fight for maximum points,” he said. “If we stay disciplined and keep improving every week, the title will be within our reach.”
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