The National Super League (NSL) survival battle will reach its climax this weekend, with all eyes on Mombasa Elite and Kajiado who are hoping to survuve.Elite will face Mulembe United, who confirmed their NSL status last weekend, at Serani Sports Club. Meanwhile, Titus Mbatha’s Kajiado will play against already-relegated Gusii away from home.Sitting 18th in a 20-team league, Kajiado needs more than a miracle to survive. Defeat to Gusii on Sunday will see them drop to the third tier, while Elite needs just a draw against Mulembe to secure their place in the league.##NAJAVA_MECA_8185761##Elite assistant coach Phelix Ogutu remains confident in the team’s survival chances, insisting that they are not under pressure and will approach their final match like any other league game.However, he disclosed that they will be without defender and captain Daniel Odhiambo, who has been an integral part of the team this season.“We are ready for the final day of the season; it is a big weekend for the technical bench, players, and everyone attached to the club,” Ogutu stated.“We are not under pressure. We will approach the match like any other game and aim to come out victorious after 90 minutes. It is a chance to redefine who we are as Mombasa Elite,” Ogutu told Mozzart Sport.Former KCB defender Harun Mwale in hunt for new club after six months in coldOgutu has warned his Elite side not to underestimate Mulembe, who have been on an upward trajectory in the last eight games.”We will handle them like any other opponent from the National Super League because it may prove dangerous to approach the game with the mindset that they are a better-placed team. “We know they are coming to fight for a strong finish, and we also know how a win will help us. It is going to be a tough match,” he added.Ogutu, who faced criticism when he joined the club while they were at the bottom of the log, shifting from Gusii, said maintaining discipline and changing the players’ mentality propelled them out of the relegation zone.”It was frustrating to see the team at the bottom of the table, and I got a lot of criticism. People said I wouldn’t succeed, but I took the challenge, changed the players’ mentality, and identified where changes were needed. That’s why we are here now talking about survival,” asserted the former Muhoroni Youth gaffer.How Emerging Stars managed to humble Zambia in COSAFA openerThe ex-Transfoc coach further challenged the club supporters to come out in numbers and support the team, even in critical times.“To our supporters, let us come together and support our team. Next season, if I am available, we expect the team to perform better, and we will push for promotion to the FKF Premier League. They should stop focusing on our shortcomings and cheer us to success.”
