By Bonface Mulyungi

Mombasa United boosted their Kenya Premier League promotion hopes with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nzoia Sugar FC in their final home match of the season at Mbaraki Sports Club, Mombasa.

The decisive goal came four minutes into the second half when defender David Wanyama fired a low 20-yard shot into the bottom corner, leaving Nzoia Sugar goalkeeper Jeremiah Wangeka with no chance.

The hosts started brightly and almost took the lead in the opening minute when David Mayson rose highest to meet Kevin Okoth‘s free-kick, but his header drifted wide.

Moments later, Mayson and Nehemiah Onchiri combined well inside the penalty area before setting up Clinton Odiwuor, whose effort missed the target.

Mombasa United dominated much of the first half, but Nzoia Sugar gradually settled into the contest after the half-hour mark. Obed Khakina and Shendrack Omuse both had opportunities to break the deadlock for the visitors but failed to convert.

Ten minutes before halftime, Mayson’s powerful header was well saved by Wangeka, while United striker Abdalla Swaleh narrowly missed the target with another chance late in the first half.

The breakthrough finally arrived shortly after the restart through Wanyama’s well-struck effort, which proved enough to secure all three points for the hosts.

Nzoia Sugar pushed for an equaliser and came close in the 74th minute when substitute Abiud Wanjiku found himself in a promising position, but his shot went off target.

The victory means Mombasa United conclude the 2025/26 season unbeaten at home, having won 17 of their 19 matches at Mbaraki Sports Club and drawing the remaining two.

Speaking after the match, Mombasa United head coach Peter Okidi praised his team’s performance and resilience.

“We got it right today. We improved from our last game. In the previous match we failed to score, but today we created many chances and managed to get the goal that secured the win. Overall, these are three very important points for us,” Okidi said.

Nzoia Sugar head coach Charles Odera, on the other side, remained positive despite the defeat and congratulated his players for their effort.

“It was a tough battle for both sides. Mombasa United took their chance while we couldn’t make the most of ours. We came here ready to compete and it was a good match. We wish Mombasa United all the best in their fight for promotion to the Kenya Premier League,” Odera said.