Ulinzi Stars will host Kariobangi Sharks in a Round 22 FKF Premier League clash on Wednesday, 19th February 2025, at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos. Kickoff is set for 4:00 PM EAT.Form and contextKariobangi Sharks arrive desperate to end a nine-game winless run that stretches back to December 2024. Meanwhile, Ulinzi Stars have experienced mixed results but come into this game with momentum after a comeback win against Murang’a Seal at the tough St. Sebastian Park.##NAJAVA_MECA_8720402##Sharks’ head coach, William Muluya, will be looking for revenge after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat in the first leg, where substitute Javan Omondi netted the decisive goal in the 78th minute.Expected lineupsUlinzi Stars (4-4-2)Head coach Danstun Nyaudo typically sets up his team in a classic 4-4-2. Ricks Omondi is expected to continue in goal, with Brian Birgen likely to return at right-back, replacing Felix Otieno. Tellena Ochieng will retain his left-back role, while Samunya Amatton and Fredrick Oduor should form the central defensive pairing.Ongwae, Wamukota make Kenya Morans squad for FIBA Afrobasket QualifiersIn midfield, Brian Emillio and Ibrahim Shambi are set to anchor the center, with Leshan Mootin and Boniface Muchiri operating on the wings. Up front, veteran forward Meshack Karani is expected to lead the line alongside Oscar Wamalwa.Kariobangi Sharks (4-2-3-1)Muluya prefers a fluid 4-2-3-1 setup. Sebastian Wekesa is his trusted choice in goal. With Ian Karani injured, Timothy Ekhavi will likely partner Kevin Otiala in central defense. At right-back, Leon Levitt Otieno has been the standout performer after Fredrick Alushula’s exit to AFC Leopards, while the left-back slot is up for grabs between Zablon Kutela and Ghai Panchol, as Steve Biko remains sidelined.Shabana confirm acquisition of two former players in busy transfer windowIn midfield, Biron Otieno and Andreas Odhiambo should operate as the double pivot, with Fortune Omotto playing as the attacking midfielder. Steve Mbulere and Victor Ngume are expected to play on the wings, supporting Ally Salum, who is returning from injury as the lone striker.Tactical breakdownUlinzi Stars’ ApproachUlinzi Stars will likely prioritize defensive solidity and quick transitions. In the first leg, they allowed the Sharks to dominate early build-up play but were disciplined in midfield, denying space to key creators like Andreas Odhiambo.Nyaudo’s men will once again defend in a compact 4-4-2 shape, with the two strikers leading the press and the midfielders tucking in to form a defensive block. The main focus will be on neutralizing Odhiambo’s influence and keeping a close eye on Kariobangi’s top scorer, Ally Salum.Kakamega Homeboyz new signing sets ambitious target after maiden goalOn the counterattack, Ulinzi will look to exploit the pace and dribbling ability of Mootin and Muchiri. Set-pieces will also be a key weapon, with Wamalwa’s aerial presence posing a major threat, especially against Ekhavi, who is good at defending aerial balls but physically inferior compared to the returning Ulinzi striker.Another potential avenue for Ulinzi is attacking the space left by Leon Levitt when he pushes forward. One of their strikers is likely to drift into this area to create an advantage in transitions.Kariobangi Sharks’ approachMuluya’s side thrives in possession and will stick to their philosophy of building from the back. They employ the “Lavolpiana Exit” to gain a numerical advantage while building from the back. This involves engaging a midfielder in the first build-up phase to create a 3v2 numerical advantage.Course record holder Vibian Chepkirui chases third Vienna triumphBiron always drops from midfield to form a triangle with the two centerbacks, who split on either side of the goalkeeper. Ulinzi, who are likely to press with two men up front, will be outnumbered in this phase, allowing Sharks to progress the ball into midfield and beyond.Once in possession, Sharks transition into an attacking 3-2-2-3 shape, with Leon Levitt pushing high to overload the right flank. The left-back, meanwhile, tucks inside to form a stable three-man defense that can counter Ulinzi’s counterattacks.In attack, Sharks will look to create overloads in midfield by having one of the wingers tuck inside, effectively playing as a second attacking midfielder. This allows for more central combinations and better link-up play with the advancing fullbacks.Mathare United head coach singles player for praise after Shabana drawKey Factors to Watch1. Midfield battle: Ulinzi must disrupt Sharks’ rhythm and limit Odhiambo’s time on the ball. If Sharks can bypass Ulinzi’s midfield press, they will control the game.2. Transitions: Ulinzi’s counterattacks and set-piece threats will be critical, while Sharks must guard against being caught out when their fullbacks push forward.3. Striker buel: Ally Salum leads the line for Sharks and will look to break Ulinzi’s defensive block, while Wamalwa’s physicality will test Sharks’ backline.AFC Leopards beats Gor Mahia to the signing of Sharks defender
