NSL: Naivas plot spirited comeback after difficult first leg

Naivas FC are determined to turn things around in the second half of the National Super League (NSL) season after identifying missed scoring opportunities as their biggest undoing in the opening leg.

‎With the first leg of the campaign officially concluded, the supermarket-sponsored side has shifted focus to addressing areas that cost them valuable points, chief among them their inability to convert clear chances in front of goal.

‎Speaking to Citizen Digital, head coach Elvis Ayani believes those lapses explain why Naivas failed to maintain momentum, despite an impressive start to the season.

‎Ayani admitted that while his team has often dominated matches and played attractive football, poor finishing has repeatedly let them down.

‎That problem was once again evident last Saturday when Naivas were forced to settle for a barren draw against Nairobi City Stars. According to Ayani, his players controlled large spells of the match and created several goal-scoring opportunities but lacked the composure needed to find the back of the net.

‎“We played well and created chances, but we did not take them,” Ayani noted, pointing to wasted opportunities as the difference between securing maximum points and sharing the spoils.

‎At the halfway stage of the season, Naivas sit 12th on the NSL table with 23 points - a position that falls short of their ambitions. Migori Youth lead the standings with 37 points, tied with MOFA but holding an advantage on goal difference.

‎As the league enters its decisive second leg, Naivas will be hoping sharper finishing and improved efficiency in the final third can propel them up the table and reignite their push for a strong finish to the season.

‎"With the new signings heading into the second leg, I hope we will improve in those areas." He said.

‎His sentiments on new signings come as the FKF January transfer window closes on Monday, February 2, 2026.