Soy United earned a hard-fought 1-0 win over Sigalagala Polytechnic FC in the final round of the FKF Division One Zone B at Ivugwi Primary Grounds. Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe victory kept their National Super League (NSL) promotion hopes alive, as they wait for the ruling on a case involving Gucha Stars, who are accused of fielding an ineligible player earlier in the season.Coming into this high-pressure match, Soy United had just lost 2–1 to Hillside FC, which ended their chances of automatic promotion. Compel FC’s win in their penultimate game meant Soy were tied on points with the Webuye-based side and separated only by goal difference. Mashemeji Derby date confirmedWith so much at stake, Soy United needed nothing less than a win to give themselves a shot at promotion through the playoff route.Both teams stuck to their traditional systems. Soy United coach Samuel Twago used his familiar 4-2-3-1 formation, building his team around quick wing play and midfield discipline. In contrast, Sigalagala Polytechnic lined up in a 4-3-3, hoping to impose themselves through numbers in attack and energy in midfield.##NAJAVA_MECA_8931535##Soy’s Shape and Tactical PlanSoy United set the tone early, taking control of the game with high energy and clear purpose. Twago’s plan focused heavily on attacking through the flanks, especially the right wing. Winger John Khanda gave Sigalagala’s left back, Anami, a tough time throughout the first half. Anami, usually a forward, looked out of place in defense and struggled to contain Khanda’s pace and skill.Soy made full use of the imbalance on that side. Right back Brian Ojok regularly pushed forward to join Khanda, creating two-against-one situations that overwhelmed Sigalagala’s left side. This constant pressure forced the visiting side to retreat deeper and gave Soy control of the wide areas.Shabana rakes in Ksh 1.4m despite home loss to Mara SugarOn the left wing, however, things were different. Raymond Otieno played narrower than usual and found it difficult to influence the game. Otieno thrives when he can isolate defenders and attack in one-on-one situations, but his positioning denied him that space. As a result, most of Soy’s dangerous moments came from the right side.Soy’s midfield pair, Watsack Lutembekho and Joseph Wafula, provided excellent balance. They tracked runners, broke up play, and supported transitions. Clinton Deka, operating just ahead of them, played a key role in linking up play and creating chances.##NAJAVA_MECA_8931497##Sigalagala’s Direct ApproachSigalagala struggled to settle into the game. Their strategy was more direct, often sending long balls toward their front three. Since their strikers lacked aerial presence, they focused on winning second balls and relied on midfield runners like Mike Shivachi and Tiberius Wafula to arrive late in the box.However, Soy United were alert to this approach. Their holding midfielders stayed disciplined, cutting off passing lanes and limiting Sigalagala’s chances in advanced areas. The physical battle in midfield was intense, but Soy seemed better prepared and more determined.Set Pieces and the BreakthroughTACTICAL ANALYSIS: How RS Berkane suffocated Simba in MoroccoSet pieces became a key weapon for Soy United. Striker Alfred Ratolo used his size and strength to unsettle Sigalagala’s defense in aerial duels. The visitors struggled to organise themselves inside the box, mixing man-marking and zonal systems that often left gaps.The breakthrough came in the 55th minute from a short corner routine. Ojok played the ball short to Deka, who quickly returned it to the fullback. Ojok whipped in a perfect cross to the far post, where Khanda, unmarked, headed home. The goal was a product of smart planning and exposed Sigalagala’s weakness in defending set pieces.##NAJAVA_MECA_8931709##Game Management and SubstitutionsAfter taking the lead, Soy United shifted their focus to game management. Twago made key substitutions to help protect the narrow lead. He replaced the more attacking players—Khanda, Deka, and Wafula—with Kevin Odira, Eric Namasaka, and Peter Ochieng.Odira brought more bite and presence to midfield, helping Soy absorb pressure and close out the game. Namasaka and Ochieng offered fresh legs and defensive cover as Sigalagala pushed forward in search of an equaliser.Though Sigalagala kept pressing, they lacked the creativity and composure to break down Soy’s compact structure. Soy United held on for the win and gained revenge for their 3–1 defeat in the first leg.Tusker FC head coach posts cryptic message after 7-1 loss to SofapakaTactical Discipline and Wing Play Deliver VictorySoy United’s win was built on smart tactics, strong wing play, and solid defensive organisation. Coach Twago’s decision to target Sigalagala’s weaker left side paid off, and his team showed better structure, motivation, and adaptability throughout the match. By exploiting wide areas, pressing intelligently, and executing set pieces well, Soy managed to carry the day in a must-win game.Now, all eyes are on the pending ruling involving Gucha Stars. But if this performance is anything to go by, Soy United look well-prepared for whatever challenge comes next in their quest for National Super League football.
