Okidi plays down Shabana FC title talks after City Stars victory

Shabana FC head coach Peter Okidi has expressed cautious optimism about his team’s Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKF-PL) title prospects following their 2-0 triumph over Nairobi City Stars at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos, on Sunday.

The win saw Shabana climb to fourth on the league standings with 46 points, just six adrift of leaders Kenya Police FC.

The impressive performance has reignited conversations around Shabana’s ability to challenge for the title this season. However, Okidi, while upbeat about his squad's progress, was careful not to get carried away.

“About the league, everybody should focus on their matches. The good thing is that there are five teams that are on top and we’ve not played with them. So I can say everybody should win their own matches then we will know when the season comes to an end on who will have the last laugh,” Okidi said during the post-match interview.

Okidi’s comments reflect a grounded approach despite the growing excitement among Shabana fans.

The coach emphasized the importance of staying focused on each game rather than getting lost in title talks at this stage of the season.

The tactician also praised his players for their strategic execution against City Stars, highlighting the team's discipline and patience during the early stages of the match.

“Everything was tactical. We knew that in the first 10 or so minutes, they would be on the front foot. We wanted them to fall in our trap and they did that. We just wanted to ensure that we do not concede at that moment. If you look back at the first 15-20 minutes, they were the better side, and I applaud my boys for getting it right then,” he said.

Shabana’s focus now turns to a high-stakes clash on Sunday, May 4, against rivals Gor Mahia FC, who are also deeply entrenched in the title race.

The clash promises to be a true test of Shabana’s championship credentials, with Okidi’s side carrying growing confidence into what could be a defining moment of their season.