Kabati Youth fans confident of NSL survival despite rocky start

The Murang’a County club earned promotion last season after winning the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Division One League Zone B with 58 points from 30 matches.

Kabati struggled early in the NSL, drawing once and losing three times in their opening four fixtures. The poor run, which left them with a single point in the relegation zone, led to the dismissal of head coach Joe Mungai, who had guided them to promotion.

Mungai was replaced by Hadji Bilali, under whom the team has recorded three draws, three losses, and two wins. After 12 rounds, Kabati sit 18th in the 20-team league with 10 points from three wins, one draw, and eight losses.

Ahead of their Friday 3 p.m. clash with Nzoia Sugar at Sudi Stadium, fans believe the team can secure a second straight win and build momentum.

“We are hopeful of getting a win today — the worst we can do is draw. The team is gaining confidence and playing better. We will survive relegation, though it will be a tough battle,” said Martin Kahia, a vocal supporter on Facebook.

“We started badly, but the tides are turning. If we get seven to nine points in the next three matches, we’ll be out of danger. That starts today by beating Nzoia Sugar,” added fan Festus Muiruri, known as fan sugu.

Kabati recently beat Kibera Black Stars 1–0, lost 2–0 to FC Talanta, and defeated Kisumu All Stars 2–0, collecting six vital points to climb off the bottom.

“In football, winning and losing are part of the game. We just need to boost the boys’ morale. We’re not giving up; the team is showing improvement,” said a female supporter.

“It’s our first NSL season, so we lack experience and some players may be dealing with nerves. But we are not going anywhere,” another fan said.

A third supporter added: “Every league is tough. We just need to avoid relegation this season, gain experience, and start stronger next year. With time, we can even target promotion to the KPL. I urge fans to keep supporting the boys.”