The FKF Division Two Western Zone final between Samitsi FC and MMUST FC unfolded as a gripping tactical contest between two teams that mirrored each other structurally but differed in execution. Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsBoth sides lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, yet it was Samitsi who imposed themselves early, only for MMUST to grow into the game, rally from two goals down, and eventually triumph on penalties. With the win, MMUST FC were crowned champions of the Western Zone and secured promotion to FKF Division One. The match, played in front of a lively crowd, was also attended by FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga, who praised the quality of football on display.Why Harambee Stars still needs Victor Wanyama’s servicesSamitsi FC started with Lemmy Manase in goal, Kerry Solomon at right back, Stephen Ochieng at left back, and a central defensive pairing of Francis Keya and Edward Mandela. The midfield double pivot was manned by Bramuel Okola and Chapani Okello, with Moses Mulekano playing as the central attacking midfielder. The wingers were Ndete Ainea and John Nakitare, supporting Samson Ambani as the lone striker.MMUST, meanwhile, fielded Nduati Julius in goal. Their back four consisted of Michael Job at right back, Opinya Stephen on the left, and the central duo of Ogutu Boaz and Simidi Martin. ##NAJAVA_MECA_8971596##In midfield, Bahati Byron and Wanyama Nickson formed the base of the double pivot, with Brian Wangila ahead of them as the number ten. Bruce Fwaro and Mophart Otieno occupied the flanks, while Ochieng Ronnie led the line.From the start, Samitsi looked more settled. They initiated their build-up from the back with the centre-backs splitting wide to stretch MMUST’s first line of press. The double pivot dropped deep to assist in circulation, and once they navigated through the first phase, they looked to exploit MMUST’s high defensive line by launching quick balls into the channels. Kshs1.2 billion valued Harambee Stars prospect backed to replace Man City-bound star at WolvesThis approach worked well, particularly as MMUST failed to compress the space between their midfield and backline. Samitsi’s wingers were constantly given space to run at the fullbacks in isolated 1v1 situations. Ainea Ndete proved especially dangerous, repeatedly getting the better of his marker on the flank.Moses Mulekano was central to Samitsi’s threat. His ability to drift wide and create overloads gave Samitsi an edge in attacking transitions. ##NAJAVA_MECA_8971595##His inside-out movements allowed the team to dominate the wide areas, and his technical ability made him a consistent threat through the central channel as well. Samitsi’s high pressing and quick switches of play pinned MMUST deep, exposing vulnerabilities in their structure and rhythm.On the other end, MMUST also tried to build from the back using a 4-2 setup. The centre-backs split while one of the holding midfielders dropped to form a passing triangle, with Brian Wangila occasionally dropping into the half-space to act as an exit option. Former Mathare FC goalkeeper killed for snatching phoneHowever, their slow ball circulation allowed Samitsi’s press to effectively disrupt their buildup. MMUST’s attempts to play through the middle were repeatedly foiled by Samitsi’s organised press, and their forwards were largely isolated as a result.Despite their dominance, Samitsi failed to find the breakthrough in the first half. They created numerous half-chances but lacked composure in front of goal, and the match went into the break goalless.At the start of the second half, MMUST made a tactical switch, withdrawing Bahati Byron for Ian Masika. The move added some urgency to their midfield, but Samitsi remained on the front foot. ##NAJAVA_MECA_8971594##They opened the scoring through a set-piece when a goalkeeping error by Nduati allowed Mulekano to pounce and slot home. Buoyed by the goal, Samitsi continued pressing and exploiting the high line. In the 63rd minute, Mulekano again capitalised on a defensive lapse, finding space out wide and firing past Julius at the near post to double the lead.MMUST appeared shell-shocked, second-best in duels and unable to impose themselves. But the match began to turn as Samitsi’s intense pressing took its toll. Their energy dropped, the gaps between lines increased, and their decision-making began to waver. Former Harambee Stars striker facing 8 charges in EnglandMMUST sensed the momentum shift and began pushing more players forward. In the 69th minute, a hopeful ball behind the Samitsi defence was not properly dealt with. Wangila seized on the opportunity, finishing past the keeper to give MMUST a lifeline.With Samitsi retreating into a defensive shell, they started conceding dangerous fouls around their box. In the 90th minute, MMUST were awarded a free kick near the right touchline. Bruce Fwaro stepped up, and his delivery sailed untouched into the net, levelling the game at 2-2 and sending it straight into a penalty shootout.In the shootout, MMUST held their nerve while Samitsi faltered. Sheban Makokha and Kerry Solomon missed for Samitsi, and MMUST converted four penalties to seal a remarkable comeback victory.##NAJAVA_MECA_8971590##The final was not just a contest of skill, but a revealing display of tactical contrasts and physical endurance. Samitsi were tactically superior for long stretches, particularly in wide areas and transitions. Their use of overloads and direct play caused MMUST significant problems. Mulekano’s movement and technical prowess stood out as he orchestrated much of their attack. However, Samitsi’s reliance on a high-octane approach came at a cost. As the intensity dropped, so did their control. Fatigue led to poor challenges, disorganisation in defence, and eventually, the breakdown that allowed MMUST back into the game.Kenyans disappointed after Chad frustrates McCarthy’s bid for maiden Harambee stars winMMUST, though passive for long spells, demonstrated excellent mental resilience. They adjusted their tempo late in the game, pushed numbers forward as Samitsi dropped back, and capitalised on their opponent’s fatigue. Their set-piece efficiency and composure under pressure were key to their eventual success.With the win, MMUST FC not only clinched the FKF Division Two Western Zone title but also earned a deserved promotion to the FKF Division One. ##NAJAVA_MECA_8971600##FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga, who was present at the final, praised the level of talent on display and reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to grassroots development.In the end, the final was a microcosm of modern football—a game of transitions, tactical structure, physical endurance, and mental toughness. MMUST may not have been the better team over ninety minutes, but they were the smarter one when it mattered most.
