Ulinzi Stars show promise under Nyaudo after two PL rounds

The Soldiers have begun the 2025/26 FKF Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 away victory over Murang’a SEAL at the St.Sebastian Park, followed by the point against Sharks yesterday at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.

That unbeaten start offers fans renewed hope after a torrid 2024/25 season where Ulinzi managed just 38 points and finished 12th, only three points clear of the relegation zone.

It’s a stark contrast in fortunes. Last season’s opening two fixtures ended in two defeats, with no goals scored and four conceded. This time, the Soldiers already boast one win, one draw, two clean sheets, and a goal on the board.

“We got the signings that we wanted and we look forward to a great season,” Nyaudo said after the Sharks clash. “What worked out for me is that I was building from somewhere, I was building from something. When you have the foundation, finishing in your house becomes a little bit easier.”

The coach pointed to continuity as a big plus. “I had a team that I started preparing from last season. I only lost three players—Lumumba, Yakin, and goalkeeper Issa Emuria. So, I did not have that difficult time in signing. I knew I wanted sharp offensive players, so I went for Leon, Paul Mwasi, and Mouas Masuta. Mwas did not have his day. But I am looking forward to a good season because, again, defensively we have stabilised.”

He praised his defenders’ development, adding: “Bran has done his pre-season well. Bildad has grown, you can see, he has grown now into a good defender. I think our mobility is positive in our progression.”

Captain Brian Birgen echoed his coach’s optimism, urging fans to believe in the team.

 “I can encourage them to come. I think we gave them a good show. Regardless, we have not given them the three points. But they have seen what the boys can do. So this season, they should have hope and believe in us. We will give them positive results,” Birgen said.

Vice captain and Harambee Stars winger Boniface Muchiri also weighed in hoping to fix some mistakes in various areas.

“Of course, we have to score three points and we didn’t do that in today’s game. So hopefully we are going to work on that to make sure next game we get goals that will help us to get the three points,” he said. “I’m really happy for the effort from the goalkeeper, defence line, midfielder and striker. So we keep on working as a team, we keep on working together. And to focus for the next game as we correct our mistakes.”

Off the pitch, Ulinzi Stars have also seen leadership changes in recent months. Lieutenant Colonel David Nganga took over as chairman in July 2025, only to be replaced a few weeks later by Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Ombaba in late August. The new leadership, combined with Nyaudo’s continuity on the touchline, is expected to provide fresh direction.

Next up for the Soldiers is a stern test against defending champions Police FC, who are currently juggling league duty with CAF Champions League preliminary qualifiers. But for now, the early signs suggest Ulinzi Stars are finally marching forward again.