Japanese striker 'Mitoma' reacts to debuting for Nairobi City Stars after five months

© Nairobi City Stars.

FKFPL Japanese striker 'Mitoma' reacts to debuting for Nairobi City Stars after five months

Festus Chuma 08:38 - 09.02.2024

Japanese striker Kusaba has revealed excitement and future ambitions after Nairobi City Stars debut against Shabana.

Nairobi City Stars welcomed a new sensation into their squad as Japanese striker Yuto Kusaba made a memorable entrance into the FKF Premier League. 

On Sunday 4 February amidst the charged atmosphere of the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, Kusaba took to the field against Shabana in what would be a defining moment of the Matchday 20 encounter.

Entering the fray in the 77th minute for Dennis Oalo, the Japanese forward was eager to showcase his skills in Kenya's top-flight football, an opportunity he had long anticipated.

"It felt nice to finally play at this level as I had been waiting for this opportunity," Kusaba expressed, reflecting on his debut.

 The intensity of the Shabana game provided him with valuable insights into the competitive nature of the league. 

"The Shabana game was competitive and it gave me an idea of what I need to do to approach the upcoming games," he added.

Kusaba's aspirations for his new team are clear, as he aims to leverage his debut as a stepping stone to greater success. 

"I hope to build upon this first game and get City Stars back to winning ways," he concluded.

Joining City Stars during the offseason in August 2023, Kusaba's registration for the current campaign was finalized in the January 2024 mid-season transfer window, marking the start of what many hope will be a prolific tenure.

The talented forward is fondly compared to Brighton's winger Kaoru Mitoma, illustrating the high expectations surrounding his potential impact on the team. 

Before gracing the local pitches, he honed his abilities at St Andrews University and Basara Hyogo in Japan. 

His path to professional football took a unique turn when he came to Kenya as a volunteer with an Embu-based non-governmental organization, which led to his stint with FC Zenshin. 

As City Stars prepare for their next challenge against Bandari FC at Mbaraki Grounds on Saturday, all eyes will be on Kusaba, who is hopeful of securing a spot in the starting line up.

 His performance and adaptability to the FKF Premier League will be keenly observed as he seeks to make a lasting impact and live up to the comparisons with Kaoru Mitoma.

Follow Pulse Sports WhatsApp channel for more news.