War Bells at Mbaraki: Mombasa United Braced for Ultimate MOFA Test
The air in Mombasa is thick with anticipation as the National Super League (NSL) enters its most critical phase. On Friday, February 27, 2026, league leaders Mombasa United will face their toughest psychological and physical test yet when they welcome MOFA FC to the Mbaraki “fortress.”
For the coastal side, this isn’t just a match—it’s a chance for redemption.
The “Payback” Mission
Mombasa United currently sits at the top of the table with 43 points, holding a five-point lead over MOFA (38 points). However, the memory of their first-leg meeting in Kisumu still stings. On that day, the “White Rhinos” of MOFA decimated United in a 4-0 blowout that sent shockwaves through the league.
Head coach Gilbert Selebwa isn’t hiding his intentions.
“We are still unbeaten at home, and that is our first motivation,” Selebwa told reporters this week. “If we win, we open an eight-point gap. At that point, for them to catch us, we’d have to lose three matches—which I think is close to impossible.”
Coach Charles Bruno’s Tactical Threat
While Mombasa United is sounding the war bells, MOFA head coach Charles Bruno remains composed. Speaking via MOFA TV, Bruno emphasized that his squad has undergone “intense preparation” for the Mbaraki atmosphere. MOFA knows that a win on Friday would move them within two points of the leaders, effectively blowing the promotion race wide open.
The “12th Man” Factor
Coach Selebwa has issued a rallying cry to the coastal fans, urging them to “fill Mbaraki to the rafters.” In a season where Migori Youth (2nd place) is breathing down their necks, Mombasa United knows that their home crowd could be the deciding factor in maintaining their slender lead.
What’s at Stake?
A win for Mombasa United essentially puts one foot in the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) for 2027. A loss, however, could see them displaced from the top spot if Migori Youth wins their weekend fixture against Darajani Gogo.
Kick-off is at 3:00 PM (EAT). Will the coast remain a fortress, or will the White Rhinos charge to the top?
