Africa-Press – Kenya. Shabana headline Wednesday’s SportPesa League Round 22 fixtures with a high-stakes clash against Mathare United at Nyayo Stadium, knowing victory is essential to keep their title ambitions alive.
The 4:15 pm clash at Nyayo Stadium arrives at a defining point in the 2025/26 campaign, with Shabana sitting third on 37 points and firmly in the title conversation.
They trail leaders Gor Mahia by nine points and are three behind second-placed AFC Leopards, a gap that leaves little room for error as the campaign edges toward its decisive stretch.
For the Kisii-based side, three points against Mathare United would not only consolidate their top-three position but also maintain pressure on the leading pair. Tore Bobe head into the eagerly awaited showdown buoyed by a narrow 1-0 win over Tusker at Gusii Stadium over the weekend.
Mathare United, on the other hand, approach the fixture from 11th place with 26 points. While they are comfortably clear of the relegation zone, the congested nature of the mid-table means a single win could propel them several spots up.
Equally, a defeat could stall their momentum and leave them looking anxiously over their shoulders. The stakes, therefore, are significant for both sides, albeit for different reasons. Shabana head coach Peter Okidi emphasised the importance of focus and discipline.
“This is a big match for us and we understand what is at stake at this stage of the season. We respect Mathare United because they have been on the big stage for a long time, and so, we are not leaving anything to chance,” Okidi said.
Okidi acknowledged that with Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards setting the pace, Shabana must maintain consistency to remain in contention. “The league is very competitive and every point matters whether you are at home or away. We cannot afford to drop points because the teams above us are also winning their matches,” he noted.
Preparations have centred on sharpening key areas that could prove decisive at Nyayo Stadium. “Our preparation has been intense and the players have responded well in training,” Okidi explained. “We have worked on our finishing and defensive organisation because small details will decide this game.”
Okidi expects a lively atmosphere in Nairobi. “Playing at Nyayo Stadium gives us extra motivation because we know our supporters will turn up in numbers,” he said. “I have confidence in my players because they have shown character in difficult matches.”
Mathare United head coach John Kamau during a past training session/MATHARE UNITED Mathare United head coach John Kamau is equally aware of the magnitude of the contest as they seek to break into the top half of the table.
“Shabana are a strong side with experience in key areas of the pitch,” Kamau said.
“We have corrected the mistakes we made in our previous match and the players understand their roles.”
Kamau believes the hunger within his youthful squad could give them an edge despite the visitors’ superior league standing. “Our young players are eager to prove themselves and matches like this help them grow,” he observed.
“We know the importance of getting points at home and we cannot afford to lose concentration.” The Mathare tactician stressed that tactical discipline will be crucial if his side are to contain Shabana’s attacking threats.
“We must stay compact defensively and avoid giving them space in dangerous areas,” he explained.
“Midfield control will be key. It’s where the tempo of the game will be decided.” Despite the gap between the two sides, Kamau insists the league table will count for little once the whistle blows.
“We are coming to Nyayo to compete strongly and fight for all three points,” he said. Elsewhere, Murang’a Seal host Tusker at Wang’uru Stadium in a 2 pm kickoff, while Bandari take on Nairobi United at KPA Sports Club from 3 pm.
