In a Friday FKF Premier League showdown at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, Sofapaka FC demonstrated their tactical superiority once again, securing a narrow but significant 1-0 victory over Ulinzi Stars. This result marks a season double for Batoto Ba Mungu against the soldiers, having previously dismantled them 4-1 in a high-scoring first-leg encounter back in December.
The solitary goal that separated the two sides arrived five minutes before the break, a moment of defensive lapse proving costly for Dunstan Nyaudo’s Ulinzi outfit. A lengthy throw-in from Sofapaka’s Baron Ochieng bypassed several Ulinzi defenders, finding its way to the predatory Bramwel Simiyu. The Sofapaka striker showcased his strength and determination, muscling past the last Ulinzi man, Bildad Abonga, before calmly slotting the ball past the outstretched arms of goalkeeper Issa Emuria.
Prior to the decisive strike, Sofapaka had already rattled the woodwork, with Wayne Otieno’s effort grazing the post around the half-hour mark. Veteran midfielder Humphrey Mieno also orchestrated a dangerous freekick, but Victor Okello’s subsequent header lacked the direction to trouble Emuria.
For Ulinzi Stars, the defeat compounds their recent woes, marking their tenth loss of the season and a fourth consecutive setback. Despite creating several clear-cut opportunities, the finishing touch eluded them throughout the 90 minutes. Javan Omondi carved out a brilliant opening, weaving his way into the Sofapaka box, only to send his curling shot soaring over Edward Olak’s goal.
Ulinzi striker Staphod Odhiambo proved a constant threat but was repeatedly denied by a resilient Olak. In the first half, Olak was alert to push away an ambitious strike from Odhiambo at his near post. Just before the halftime whistle, Odhiambo thought he had finally broken the deadlock, only for his close-range finish to be controversially ruled out for handball, adding to the home side’s frustration.
Early in the second half, Abonga made amends for his earlier error with a crucial block to prevent Sofapaka from extending their lead. However, Ulinzi’s attacking endeavors continued to falter. Even a late gift from Sofapaka keeper Olak, who spilled a shot, couldn’t be capitalized on, as Joseph Ochieng blasted the loose ball high over the bar.
With this hard-earned victory, Sofapaka ascend to seventh place in the FKF Premier League standings, showcasing their resilience after a surprising loss to Talanta in their previous fixture. The situation looks increasingly precarious for Ulinzi Stars, who now find themselves just four points above the relegation zone, facing a weekend with the specter of dropping further down the table.
