Ulinzi Stars coach identifies major stumbling block in fight to avoid relegation
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Reading Time: 3min | Thu. 14.05.26. | 17:34
Ulinzi will likely need maximum points from the remaining matches while also hoping results elsewhere swing in their favour
Ulinzi Stars interim coach Mulinge Ndeto has pointed to the mental fragility and inexperience within his squad as the biggest obstacle threatening the club’s fight against relegation from the FKF Premier League.
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Speaking to Azam TV, after Ulinzi’s 2-0 defeat against AFC Leopards on Wednesday, 13 May, the former Harambee Stars defender admitted that the youthful nature of the squad has significantly contributed to the club’s struggles this season.
The defeat against the title-chasing Leopards dealt another major blow to Ulinzi’s hopes of preserving their top-flight status, leaving the four-time league champions stuck in the relegation zone in 16th place with 32 points.
The setback came just days after the Soldiers were held by Shabana FC, a result that further complicated their survival mission heading into the final stretch of the campaign.
Ndeto’s sentiments paint the picture of a rebuilding Ulinzi side heavily reliant on a relatively inexperienced crop of players, many of whom are navigating their first full top-flight campaign.
The likes of Walter Masinde, Bill Okite, Leonlevitte Osiago, Andrew Ochieng Otunda and Staphod Odhiambo, just to mention a few, have all been entrusted with significant responsibility throughout the season.
However, the lack of experience within the squad has at times exposed the military side in crucial moments, forcing the club to turn to seasoned figures during the mid-season transfer window in a desperate attempt to steady the ship.
Experienced players such as goalkeeper Timothy Odhiambo, John Kago, Bonventure Muchika, Masita Masuta and Birgen Brian were brought back to provide leadership and composure in the dressing room.
“It’s not a good result, but we don’t have time to mourn. We have to forget this match and focus on the final three matches of the season because we have to ensure the team remains up,” Ndeto said.
At a rain-soaked Nyayo Stadium, AFC Leopards got this win against Ulinzi with goals from Kelly Madada and Emmanuel Lwangu. The result gives Ingwe much needed breathing room in the title race and adds misery for an Ulinzi side stuck in the relegation zone. pic.twitter.com/J2C1B0qvKR
— Mozzart Sport Kenya (@MozzartSportKe) May 13, 2026
“We have an inexperienced lot, and maybe they have not fully understood the magnitude of the situation, but we have to go back to the drawing board and get things right," he added.
“My focus now is on how to mentally get the players into the right shape and state of mind because that will be crucial in the remaining matches, beginning with Tusker. At this stage, it is all about winning.”
Despite their rich history and status as one of the country’s most decorated clubs, Ulinzi now face an uphill battle to avoid what would be a historic relegation.
The Soldiers have three decisive fixtures left to save their season, beginning with a tough clash against Tusker FC before taking on fellow relegation-threatened sides Mathare United, and thereafter concluding their campaign with an away trip against Posta Rangers.
Ulinzi will likely need maximum points from the remaining matches while also hoping results elsewhere swing in their favour.
Any further slip-up could severely damage their hopes of maintaining their long-standing stay in the Kenyan top flight.