On Saturday, 19 October 2024, Kakamega Homeboyz traveled to Murang’a to face KCB FC in an FKF Premier League fixture.At the time, Abana Beingo were struggling, while the Bankers, under Patrick Odhiambo—the immediate former coach of Homeboyz—were in top form, easily dispatching opponents.That game turned Kakamega Homeboyz’ fortunes around, as a 4-1 thrashing forced club Chairman Cleophas Shimanyula to sack head coach Ken Kenyatta and replace him with Francis Baraza. Gor Mahia head coach bullish ahead of Mashemeji Derby clash against AFC LeopardsA Different Mood This Time This weekend, the two sides meet again at the Mumias Sports Complex, but the atmosphere around the game is quite different. In the first leg, KCB FC were top of the league while Kakamega Homeboyz languished in the relegation zone.Now, only five points separate them—KCB sits fourth with 39 points, while Abana Beingo is seventh with 34.##NAJAVA_MECA_8804789##How Homeboyz Sets Up Kakamega Homeboyz usually sets up in a 3-5-2 formation, and it is unlikely that Baraza will change that for this fixture.In the build-up phase, the three center-backs split wide to provide passing options, while one—usually Francis ‘Dimore’ Omondi—pushes into midfield to form a triangle with the other center-backs to aid progression.Gor Mahia issue update on Benson Omala’s availability for Mashemeji DerbyTheir build-up play follows repeated patterns: The goalkeeper plays a short pass to a center-back, who then looks for a diagonal or vertical pass to one of the center-forwards. Moses Shummah thrives in these situations, using his physicality to win aerial duels and bring teammates into play.Another common move is the up-back-through pattern: a long ball is played into the striker, who knocks it down to an advancing midfielder, who then plays a through pass to a runner in space.##NAJAVA_MECA_8805298##Third-man combinations have also been a key attacking strategy, but since Ben Stanley’s departure, Homeboyz has struggled to execute this effectively.Homeboyz’s Attacking Puzzle Ben Stanley Omondi was a vital part of the Homeboyz forward line as an attacking midfielder. A competitive presence on the pitch, he possesses an excellent physique and endurance, making off-the-ball runs to create overloads and disrupt defenses.Mohammed Bajaber’s message to Kenyans after loss to GabonSince his departure, Homeboyz have struggled to replace him. Hillary Otieno has taken up the role, but while he is excellent on the ball, his movement without the ball does not match that of Ben Stanley’s.Otieno thrives with the ball at his feet, showcasing excellent technique. However, he often prefers coming for the ball rather than making runs that cause chaos in opposition defenses. This predictability has made Homeboyz easier to contain, as seen in their game against FC Talanta.Baraza and his technical bench will need to address this issue heading into the game, especially as their efficiency in front of goal has dipped significantly in recent matches.##NAJAVA_MECA_8805329##KCB’s Approach KCB, on the other hand, sets up in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation, with a strong emphasis on wing play.James Kinyanjui is their creative spark, with Francis Kahiro benefiting most from his service. The addition of Mathias Isogol in midfield has given the team an extra creative edge, making them a serious threat.Musonye warns fans ahead of Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo StadiumKCB is also a physically dominant side in midfield, with Faraj Ominde being the standout in that regard. He thrives in physical battles and is not shy about engaging in duels.If left unchecked, he could be key to the Bankers controlling the midfield and forcing Abana Beingo onto the back foot.Can Homeboyz Break the Jinx? ##NAJAVA_MECA_8805226##The last time Kakamega Homeboyz won a home league match against KCB was in 2022. Coach Baraza will be eager to end that streak and secure all three points.The match is scheduled for Sunday, 30 March, with kick-off set for 2 PM.
