Ulinzi Stars vs Shabana: Team News, Time, Where to Watch as Soldiers Plot to Stun Glamor Boys

Ulinzi Stars will be battling Shabana in Lang'ata on Sunday afternoon with both sides itching to end their woeful run of form.

Struggling Shabana will be taking on Ulinzi Stars at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon hoping to end their four game unbeaten run, which has seen them plummet from top of the SportPesa league  table to seventh place after six games.

Shabana  began the season with style, claiming a 4-2 triumph over APS Bomet and following up with a 1-0 win at Bandari. 

Winger Brian Michira starred in those early victories, scoring twice in the opener and again away in Mombasa. But the momentum has since waned.

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Michira was forced off injured in a 1-1 draw against Tusker, an injury that coach Peter Okidi admits disrupted their rhythm. It has become clear that Shabana now face a test of depth without their key creator.

Shabana has also been affected by injuries to other key players, such as  defender George ‘Dizo’ Onyango and Keith Imbali, who recently returned from injury.

They displayed a promising performance against Kariobangi Sharks at Kasarani Stadium last week despite the game ending goalless, and will be hoping they can start converting the numerous chances they created in that game into goals in order to get back in contention for the title.

Ulinzi Stars meanwhile, will be hoping they can cause another upset, having frustrated Gor Mahia to a 1-1 draw last week under the guidance of stand-in coach Stephen Ocholla following Dunstan Nyaudo’s dismissal.

At this stage, Ulinzi are under serious pressure. Their form has flagged, and recent statistics paint a frustrating picture: the club have managed just one win in their last seven matches, drawing three and losing three.

Their goals-scoring average sits at under one per game and the team appear devoid of sharpness in attack. In such circumstances, the home tie against Shabana offers a vital opportunity to reset.

Predicted Line ups:

Ulinzi Interim coach Stephen Ochola is expected to stick with the 4-1-2-3 formation that has brought more balance to the team in recent matches. Timothy Odhiambo is likely to continue as goalkeeper, protected by a back four consisting of Telena Ochieng at left-back, Brian Birgen at right-back, and the central defensive pairing of Bildad Abonga and Frederick Otieno.

In midfield, Emilio Okello will hold the defensive midfield role, while Boniface Muchiri and Joseph Ochieng take on more advanced positions. Up front, the attacking trio of Paul Mwanyika, Leonlevvit Osiago, and the experienced Enosh Ochieng will aim to exploit Shabana’s defensive weaknesses.

Shabana

On the other hand, Shabana’s coach Peter Okidi may opt for continuity despite recent difficulties, sticking with the familiar 4-2-3-1 formation. Due to several injuries limiting his options, Okidi is expected to field the same lineup as their last game. Stephen Otieno will start in goal, with a backline featuring Victor Omondi, James Mazembe, Mark Okola, and Wycliffe Omondi.

The midfield will likely see Biron Otieno and Kevin Omundi as the holding duo, with Keith Imbali playing a more advanced role. Creativity will come from Bronson Nsubuga and Ezekiah Omuri, supporting striker Austin Odongo, who operates from the flanks. 

Shabana’s main challenge remains converting possession into clear scoring opportunities, and regaining confidence in their attacking unit will be crucial if they are to breach Ulinzi’s disciplined defense.

Where to Watch:

The game will be televised live on Azam TV.

Across the Grounds

In Mombasa, Bandari will be taking on KCB, while struggling Bomet will be hoping for their first win of the season against Mathare United

In Mombasa, Bandari will be taking on KCB, while struggling Bomet will be hoping for their first win of the season against Mathare United