In a tightly contested National Super League (NSL) fixture at Sudi Stadium, Nzoia Sugar FC edged out Darajani Gogo courtesy of a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a 69th-minute penalty from Elisha Wekesa. Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsDespite Gogo’s push for promotion and possession-heavy style, Nzoia Sugar’s tactical discipline, direct attacking approach, and well-timed substitutions proved decisive on the day. The match offered a fascinating clash of football philosophies—Nzoia’s verticality against Gogo’s patient build-up.Benni McCarthy breaks down Harambee Stars squad selection ahead of Chad friendliesTeam SetupsBoth sides lined up in similar 4-2-3-1 formations, but their tactical approaches differed significantly.Nzoia Sugar, under coach Peter Gin, had Ian Oketch in goal, with a back four of Shariff Ali, Ezekiel Wekesa, Emmanuel Esokon, and Nassor Shikokoti. Ruben Wanyonyi and Dan Wafula operated as a solid double pivot. Ahead of them, Apaa Omonya was flanked by wingers Wycliffe Wanyonyi and Victor Maliachi, with Elisha Wekesa leading the line.##NAJAVA_MECA_8963070##Darajani Gogo, also in a 4-2-3-1, featured Timothy Rashid in goal. Brian Wepo and Ian Otieno played as fullbacks, while Hillary Wanjala and Steve Otieno formed the central defence. The midfield double pivot consisted of Aseno Khubeib and Emmanuel Ochieng, with Elisha Owino as the playmaker. Joshua Otieno and Ian Montanda operated on the wings, while Veron Ombina led the attack.First Half: Contrasting ApproachesCash-strapped FKF buckling under weight of soaring legal billsNzoia Sugar focused on direct play, often bypassing the midfield to target their quick wingers. Maliachi’s pace troubled the Gogo defence, particularly exploiting the space left by the advancing Brian Wepo. However, the Gogo centre-backs responded well, frequently covering ground to snuff out danger. Elisha Wekesa added to the pressure with diagonal runs that pulled defenders out of shape, although Nzoia could not capitalise in the final third.Gogo, in contrast, were more patient, building from the back with goalkeeper Timothy Rashid playing a key role in initiating moves. ##NAJAVA_MECA_8963055##Their midfield looked to progress the ball through the thirds, with rotations in the forward line allowing Montanda to push up alongside Ombina, forming a temporary 4-4-2. Despite Ombina’s ability to hold the ball, his lack of movement limited Gogo’s attacking threat. The first half ended goalless, with both teams staying true to their styles but unable to create clear chances.Second Half: Tactical Adjustments and Turning PointNzoia Sugar made the first bold tactical change early in the second half. In the 48th minute, Peter Gin substituted Nassor Shikokoti and Apaa Omonya for Peter Oyier and Joseph Oyugi, shifting to a 4-4-2 formation. Gor Mahia official reveals how club lost revenue during Mashemeji Derby in Homa BayOyugi joined Wekesa upfront, immediately adding physicality and pressing intensity. His relentless pressure caused panic in the Gogo backline and forced turnovers high up the pitch.The breakthrough came in the 69th minute. Oyugi’s pressure on Steve Otieno resulted in a turnover, allowing him to feed Maliachi. The winger surged into the penalty area before being brought down by Otieno. Elisha Wekesa coolly slotted home from the spot to give Nzoia Sugar the lead.##NAJAVA_MECA_8963119##In response, Gogo head coach Paul Ogai made a triple substitution—introducing Austine Wahongo, Bramuel Chemweno, and Erick Adem for Montanda, Ochieng, and Owino. The changes brought a more aggressive 4-4-2 setup, with Ombina and Adem up front. Chemweno moved to the right wing, while Wahongo partnered Khubeib in midfield.Despite the tactical switch, Gogo struggled to break down a now compact and disciplined Nzoia Sugar side. “This country has to respect Wanyama”- McCarthy on Harambee Stars’ midfielder returnThe home team defended their lead with commitment, blocking passing lanes and reducing space in central areas. Oyugi and Wekesa also tracked back when needed, ensuring Nzoia stayed organised.Nzoia Sugar’s victory was a result of effective tactical execution. Their direct play unsettled Gogo’s defence, and the decision to switch to a 4-4-2 added intensity in the final third. The introduction of Joseph Oyugi was pivotal, bringing the pressing spark that led to the winning penalty.##NAJAVA_MECA_8963032##On the other hand, Darajani Gogo’s possession-based approach lacked penetration. While they dominated the ball and showed good technical ability, their final-third play lacked sharpness and urgency. The absence of incisive runs and poor service to the strikers meant they could not convert possession into meaningful chances.In the end, it was Nzoia Sugar’s tactical flexibility, commitment, and use of space that earned them the win, a result that dented Gogo’s promotion hopes and highlighted the effectiveness of direct, high-intensity football.
