The inaugural Madukani Derby unfolds today at the Kenya Institute of Highway and Building Technology Grounds in Ngong as retailers Samwest Blackboots and Naivas FC lock horns in a much-anticipated clash.This marks the first meeting between the two sides since Samwest rebranded from Vihiga Bullets.Both teams are under pressure, sharing identical form with just one win apiece in their last six matches. For both head coaches, the stakes are high, as a strong finish to the year is imperative.##NAJAVA_MECA_8589198##For Blackboots, the derby serves as a crucial test for Coach Marco Andrea Ongwae, whose future at the club hangs in the balance.Rumors of internal discord within the technical bench have previously been reported, but Ongwae says he is focused on securing positive results.Samwest chairman Isaac Mwaura expressed confidence in his team’s ability to bag maximum points, emphasizing the significance of the derby.“This is the first-ever Madukani Derby, an opportunity for the team and business to market themselves. We share similar ambitions and serve the same community, so winning will be a significant boost for our development,” Mwaura told Mozzart Sport.“Despite our challenges, I assure fans that our performance will not be affected. Let them turn out in large numbers to support and enjoy the game.”AFC Leopards captain Clifton Miheso on how Kenyan football can developMeanwhile, Naivas, who started the season as promotion favorites, find themselves languishing in 16th place on the 20-team table.The Moment is Here!Today marks a historic milestone! As The Kick Off Eye, we will be airing our first-ever National Super League match as Samwest Blackboots clash with Naivas FC in the epic Madukani Derby! The action kicks off at 3 PM at KIHBT Grounds!This is more than just… pic.twitter.com/MniDjtKxIy— Brian Odhiambo (@Odhiambo_Brian1) December 22, 2024 The club recently rehired former head coach Elvis Ayani and his technical bench after financial constraints hindered the termination of their contracts.However, this decision has reportedly been a source of tension as the technical director’s office frequently clashes with the head coach during matches.A win for either side will lift them two places up the league standings, regardless of results from other fixtures.Zico keen to skin Sharks alive, enhance chances of landing permanent employment at Gor MahiaVihiga United vs. APS BometAt Mumias Sports Complex, Vihiga United will aim to bounce back after forfeiting their match against Mombasa United last weekend.Financial struggles have plagued the team, leaving them without training sessions since match week six.##NAJAVA_MECA_8590746##Head coach Edward Manoah is also rumored to be departing for Luanda Villa after today’s game, while several players have attracted interest from other NSL and FKF Division One clubs.Fifth-placed APS Bomet has a golden opportunity to top the standings with a win. Victory would put them one point ahead of Kibera Black Stars and Darajani Gogo, provided Nairobi United does not defeat Muhoroni Youth.In the final match of the day, league newcomers 3K FC face Nzoia Sugar at Moi Stadium in Embu in the day’s final fixture, looking to make a strong impression against the established side.
