Shabana aim for positive end to 2023 in tough matchup against Bidco United

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FKFPL Shabana aim for positive end to 2023 in tough matchup against Bidco United

Festus Chuma 08:32 - 21.12.2023

Shabana readies for a tough match against Bidco United seeking consistency in the FKF Premier League after their recent big win.

Shabana FC are set to face a formidable test as they prepare to host Bidco United in a highly anticipated showdown at Raila Odinga Homa Bay Stadium on Thursday.

With Matchday 16 of 34 in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) fast approaching, Shabana is bracing itself for a challenging encounter. 

The Glamour Boys are coming off their biggest win of the season, a resounding 4-1 victory over Sofapaka where they showcased their attacking prowess in spectacular fashion.

Ezekiel Omuri's early goal set the tone for the match, followed by Brian Michira's sublime strike in the 38th minute, extending Tore Bobe's lead. 

Wycliffe Mutua added a third goal, and Nehemiah 'Neymar' Onchiri sealed the deal with the fourth. It was a performance that left Shabana fans hungry for more success.

On the other hand, Bidco United, currently occupying 10th spot on the league table with 21 points from 15 games, are entering the matchup following a draw with Kariobangi Sharks.

Bidco's recent form has been a mixed bag, with victories against AFC Leopards and Ulinzi Stars, but setbacks against Tusker, Kakamega Homeboyz, and KCB.

In the face of Shabana's leaky defense, Bidco will look to Ezekiel Okare for inspiration and creativity in the final third.

Okare, a former Sofapaka star known for his ability to navigate tight spaces, is expected to be Bidco's playmaker and a key figure in midfield.

His guile and trickery could prove to be a thorn in Shabana's flesh and a source of danger in their pursuit of victory.

Shabana's interim coach, Oscar Kambona, is optimistic about his team's prospects, believing they have gained valuable experience in the league, which will translate into consistent results as the season progresses.

Currently sitting in the 16th position on the table with 14 points, Shabana is determined to close out 2023 on a positive note.

“The time has come for everyone to perform,” Kambona declared, expressing his faith in the team's depth and their ability to adapt to the challenges of top-flight football.

“I believe it was just a matter of time for them to gain experience to play in the Premier League. If you look, we arrived from the NSL in the first season, and it was the first time we played in the FKF Premier League, so it is time for the boys, they are now learning how to take on the opponents without being scared, without being afraid," he added.

Despite Shabana's recent success in attack, their Achilles' heel has been their defense, conceding goals in nine consecutive matches.

Vincent Nyabuto, the team's attacker, has yet to replicate the impressive performances he delivered in last season's National Super League (NSL) campaign.

However, Nyabuto's pace, physicality, and sharp instincts in the box continue to be a cause for concern for Bidco United, making him a potential game-changer on Thursday afternoon.

With a track record of three wins, seven losses, and five draws in their last 15 matches, Shabana's journey in the league has been marked by inconsistency. 

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