Record-breaking Mara Sugar aim to extend NSL lead as relegation-threatened Silibwet Leons battle financial woes and looming drop.
National Super League (NSL) action intensifies as the league enters week 35 with Mara Sugar poised to set a record while Silibwet Leons grapple with the looming threat of relegation.
The focus this weekend is sharply divided between the jubilation of potential promotions and the desperation of relegation battles.
![Burundi coach Etienne Ndayiragije reveals why tactical flexibility was key in frustrating Kenya](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/08062024/181014cf-83da-4d4b-8d3e-daedcc4733eb.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
11:32 - 08.06.2024
Burundi coach Etienne Ndayiragije reveals why tactical flexibility was key in frustrating Kenya
The Swallows tactical gameplay secured a 1-1 draw against Kenya in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Silibwet Leons, currently at the bottom of the NSL table with 22 points, are facing a critical period as they head into their remaining four matches of the season.
The team manager Eric Rono has highlighted the severity of their situation but maintained a hopeful tone about their survival prospects.
"We have tough fixtures ahead, starting with the 'big boys of NSL,' Mara Sugar, on Saturday. We also have to play Naivas, Dimba Patriots, and Nairobi United. However, we are known for achieving good results against the big teams," Rono stated as per Citizen Digital.
"I am asking the fans to rally behind the team. All is not lost, and I promise them that Silibwet Leons will not be relegated, Inshallah."
![Firat calls out tactical misstep in FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers stalemate against Burundi](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/08062024/e56f6c50-a29c-4f59-9d05-b29a8d4a71a5.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
10:34 - 08.06.2024
Firat calls out tactical misstep in FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers stalemate against Burundi
Engin Firat reflects on tactical choices after Harambee Stars draw with Burundi in the World Cup qualifiers.
Rono also voiced concerns about the team's financial difficulties, which have significantly hampered their performance.
"We are in a tough scenario with attending fixtures away. Players sometimes go without food on match days and are stranded away from home due to lack of transport. This has affected us this season," he explained, calling on well-wishers to aid the team as they strive to avoid relegation.
![Harambee Stars coach explains why Zak Vyner, Tobias Knost missed Burundi game](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/08062024/811726d2-3822-4fdf-95ce-239a582fdec0.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
09:31 - 08.06.2024
Harambee Stars coach explains why Zak Vyner, Tobias Knost missed Burundi game
Kenya struggled in their World Cup qualifier as key defenders were unexpectedly sidelined with coach Firat hinting at administrative issues.
Meanwhile, league leaders Mara Sugar are on the verge of an unprecedented achievement.
A victory over Silibwet could see them surpass the 80-point mark, a feat no team has managed in the NSL since the pandemic.
Mara Sugar’s assistant coach Godfrey Naibei is optimistic about their chances, reflecting on their past successes against Silibwet, including a 4-1 win earlier in the season.
"Our team has not tasted defeat in the last ten league matches, and we aim to continue this streak," he said.
![6 things learnt from Harambee Stars' underwhelming draw with Burundi](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/08062024/62503653-d115-4971-a646-b524612ac21d.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
08:45 - 08.06.2024
6 things learnt from Harambee Stars' underwhelming draw with Burundi
Six things we learnt from Kenya's frustrating 1-1 draw with Burundi in group F of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers:
Other key matches to watch include the Naivas vs. Mully Children Family (MCF) FC clash at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, which holds implications for Mathare United's promotion hopes.
Should MCF secure a win Mathare would clinch a return to the FKF Premier League.
Mombasa Stars and Kibera Black Stars are set to face off at Serani Sports Club with both teams vying for a respectable top-ten finish this season.
![Harambee Stars dearly miss home support as Burundi fans create carnival atmosphere in Malawi](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/07062024/6dc7cf02-0c47-4040-af71-05608702e812.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
19:31 - 07.06.2024
Harambee Stars dearly miss home support as Burundi fans create carnival atmosphere in Malawi
Harambee Stars felt the impact of Kenya’s inability to stage home matches in Nairobi when Burundi supporters outnumbered their fans at the Bingu Stadium in Lilongwe.
Elsewhere, Kisumu All Stars hopes to extend their dominance over Vihiga Bullets as they meet at Moi Stadium.
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