As the new season of the Kenya Women National Super League (NSL) looms, Madira Soccer Assassin, the Vihiga County-based club, finds itself grappling with significant financial challenges that have stalled their preseason preparations. Relegated from the Women’s Premier League last season, Madira’s efforts to regroup and mount a successful return to top-flight football are being severely hampered by delayed funding and player departures.
Head coach Francis Muhambe has expressed his frustration over the club’s current predicament. The team was scheduled to commence training several weeks ago, but the promised financial support from the County Government has yet to materialize. This delay has disrupted their training schedule, leaving the squad unprepared for the upcoming NSL campaign.
Muhambe conveyed the gravity of the situation, stating, “We were supposed to begin our training sessions some weeks ago, but without the funds promised by the County Government, it has been impossible to proceed as planned.” The lack of financial resources not only affects the team’s ability to train but also their overall preparedness for the season ahead.
In addition to the financial strain, Madira has faced setbacks with player departures. Two key players, Nelly Achieng and Charity Midewa, have left the club. Achieng has transferred to Tanzania’s Fountain Gate Club, while Midewa has signed with Rayon Sports Club in Rwanda. Their exits are a substantial blow to Madira, given their crucial roles in the team’s previous season.
The loss of Achieng and Midewa leaves a significant void in the squad. Both players were instrumental in Madira’s efforts during their time in the Women’s Premier League, and their departure means the club not only has to deal with the challenge of replacing them but also has to contend with the financial constraints that have limited their ability to make new signings.
“So far, we have not made any new signings. The focus has been on getting our finances in order first,” Muhambe noted. The club’s priority has been to stabilize its financial situation before addressing other aspects of their preparation. This approach, while necessary, means that Madira is currently at a disadvantage compared to their competitors, who may have already begun their preparations and strengthened their squads for the upcoming season.
Madira Soccer Assassin’s relegation from the Women’s Premier League last season was a setback that the club has been striving to overcome. Their current financial issues compound the difficulties faced during their relegation, creating an uphill battle for the team as they aim to return to the top tier of Kenyan women’s football within a single season.
The financial support from the County Government was expected to provide the necessary resources to facilitate training and other preparations for the new season. However, the delay in receiving these funds has put the club in a precarious position. The team’s ability to compete effectively in the NSL is now under threat, with the risk of falling further behind if the financial situation is not resolved promptly.
In light of these challenges, Madira Soccer Assassin’s management and supporters hope for a swift resolution to their financial woes. The club’s aspirations to bounce back to the Women’s Premier League hinge on overcoming these obstacles and finding a way to rally both on and off the pitch.
As the NSL season approaches, all eyes will be on Madira Soccer Assassin to see how they navigate these difficulties and whether they can regroup in time to mount a successful campaign. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the team’s readiness and prospects for the season.
