This archive report was first published on 3 January 2020.
On Friday, Sofapaka unveiled 11 new players in a move aimed at reclaiming the Kenyan Premier League title they last won in 2009.
The new signings, which include four players from Ghana, Cameroon, and Uganda, were introduced at the team's training base at Eastleigh High School in Nairobi.
According to Elly Kalekwa, Sofapaka's president, the new players will bring a good mix of experience and skills to the team, giving them an advantage in the ongoing league.
"This is a good mix of the old and new players spicing up the team's game and skills to give us an advantage in the ongoing league," Kalekwa said.
Coach John Baraza explained that the decision to add new players in the middle of the season was necessary to increase depth in the team and reduce fatigue.
Currently, Sofapaka is placed eighth in the 18-team competition with 21 points from 13 matches.
The team will be looking to secure a win in their next match against Kariobangi Sharks on Saturday at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.
Kariobangi Sharks, ranked 15th with nine points from 14 matches, has struggled this season with one win, seven losses, and six draws.
Baraza expressed confidence in Sofapaka's chances against Kariobangi Sharks, saying, "Although Kariobangi Sharks is a good team, they haven't been playing well this season giving us confidence of taking them down."
He added, "We will be giving some of the new signings a taste of the league on Saturday to gauge their skill quality."
The new signings include:
- Ndokeu Joel -Lion Bless FC- Midfielder Cameroon
- Jedinak Ameyaw- Chaniss Soccer Academy striker- Ghana
- Thomas Wainaina- Nzoia sugar FC- Defender
- Collins Wakhungu- Nzoia Sugar FC- Striker
- George Owusu- Chaniss Soccer Academy- Striker-Ghana
- Wisdom Naya- St. Anthony's Kitale- Midfielder
- Nicholas Sebwato- Bright Stars Club- Uganda- goalkeeper
- David Simiyu- Chemilil Sugar- midfielder
- Stephen Otieno- Sofapaka club- Defender
- Brian Wetende- Sofapaka youth- Defender
- Shawn Oloo- Kakamega High school- green commandos - Midfielder
