As the next National Super League (NSL) season eagerly awaits its resumption, the excitement is palpable among football fans.
Reflecting on the previous season’s exhilarating contest, where Shabana FC narrowly clinched the NSL title, Michezo TV Brian Santiago highlights the players who made a significant impact and left an indelible mark in the previous NSL season.
The first eleven, carefully selected in a 3-4-3 formation, features some of the league’s standout players who left an indelible mark on the competition.
In the goalkeeper position, Bernard Anunga of Gussi FC stands tall as the best keeper in the National League. His exceptional skills between the sticks, evident in 15 clean sheets, put him ahead of strong contenders from Murang’a Seal and Migori Youth goalkeepers.
In the defence line, Sailas Abungana from Shabana FC shines as a revelation, not just as a right-back but also as a centre-back in Sammy Okoth’s lineup. Known for his long throw trait and overlapping runs, Abungana adds versatility to the team’s backline.
Joining the defensive ranks is Shabana’s captain, Bernard Otieno, a formidable centre-back who makes it challenging for opponents’ strikers with his tough tackles. Affectionately referred to as “kisiki” (stone), Otieno’s defensive command and incisive passing make him a critical leader on the field.
Gideon Were of Murang’a Seal, a talented left-footed defender, completes the defensive trio. His versatility and exceptional passing accuracy have caught the attention of FKFPL clubs, adding to his reputation as a solid centre-back.
In the midfield, Peter Ongechi of Shabana FC takes the central position, bringing immense experience and control to the team’s gameplay. Known as a free-kick master, Ongechi’s ability to convert dangerous fouls into goals has made him a formidable force in the midfield.
Migori Youth FC’s Robert Ouma assumes the left attacking midfielder role as the team leader. His adeptness as a pass master and excellent finisher on the ball make him an integral part of his team’s tactics.
Brian Ouru, fondly known as Bailey, represents Naivas FC as a central midfielder. His ability to dictate play from the midfield and find spaces in the opposition’s area for goal-scoring opportunities has attracted significant attention from various Kenya Premier League clubs.
Murang’a Seal’s Fabian Adikinyi alias “Bathez” thrives in the attacking midfielder position. The versatile midfielder has managed to play approximately 90 per cent of the available minutes, which has guaranteed him a starting role in Vincent Nyaberi’s first eleven. He has demonstrated his ability in scoring crucial goals, notably during their home match encounter against Shabana.
Fabian has attracted the attention of several premier league clubs, but the question remains whether Coach Nyaberi will release him despite his side finishing runners-up in the just-concluded NSL league and earning a promotion to the FKF Premier League.
At the forefront, Beja Nyamwai of SS Assad proves his lethal striking prowess, bagging the Golden Boot with a remarkable 20 goals. His remarkable goal-scoring ability earned him a call-up and a transfer to KPL side Bandari FC, where he is already honing his skills.
Amos Kigadi from Vihiga United FC assumes the left-winger position, truly embodying his team’s engine. His crucial goal contributions ensured Vihiga United’s stay in the NSL, attracting interest from notable Premier League teams, including AFC Leopard.
Completing the attacking trio is Shabana FC’s Nehemiah Onchiri, an explosive right-winger whose late winners and crucial goals earned him a spot in the NSL team of the season. A fan-favourite, Onchiri’s dynamic performance adds flair to Shabana FC’s attacking lineup.
Guiding this talented squad is the astute head coach, Sammy Okoth of Shabana FC, skillfully assisted by Vincent Nyaberi of Murang’a Seal.
As the resumption of the NSL season approaches, all eyes will be on these exceptional players, eager to witness their outstanding performance in the league.
