Nyayo Rising Stars Make Maiden Appearance in FKF Makadara Youth League
Nyayo Rising Stars FC made a promising debut in the FKF Makadara Youth League, recording mixed results with its Under-11 and Under-13 teams on 5 September. The U-11 side beat Galaxy All Stars 1–0 through Ethan Kweh’s second-half goal but later lost narrowly to Halisi Soccer Club. The U-13 team began with a 3–0 defeat to Halisi Alpha FC before recovering to defeat Shauri Moyo Pride 3–2. Joseph Barasa, Samuel “Dogo” Mwangi and Vincent scored for NRS, while goalkeeper Verdict “Simo” made crucial late saves to secure the victory. Despite the mixed results, the Embakasi-based academy showed discipline, resilience and promising talent during its first competitive league appearance. The tournament offers NRS players an important platform to develop and potentially earn future Junior Harambee Stars call-ups.
NAIROBI, Kenya — Nyayo Rising Stars (NRS) FC Under-11 and Under-13 sides registered mixed results on Saturday, 5th September, as they made their official debut in the FKF Makadara Youth League.
The U-11s kicked off their campaign on a winning note, edging out Galaxy All Stars 1–0 in a tightly contested opener. Following a goalless first half, Ethan Kweh struck the decisive goal in the second stanza to secure all three points. NRS executed a disciplined tactical setup, consistently building play from the back with short, structured passes through the midfield to fuel their attack.
The U-11s fell short in their second fixture, suffering a narrow 1–0 defeat to Halisi Soccer Club. Halisi struck early in the first half and successfully defended their slim lead despite relentless second-half pressure from NRS. Despite trailing, NRS maintained their strategic composure and stuck to their passing system until the final whistle.
The U-13s faced a tough initiation into league football, succumbing to a 3–0 defeat against a clinical Halisi Alpha FC. Despite a spirited fightback in the second half, NRS was unable to breach Halisi’s defense to mount a comeback.
NRS bounced back in thrilling fashion in their second match, securing a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Shauri Moyo Pride. Joseph Barasa set the pace early with a 10th-minute opener before Samuel Mwangi—popularly known as "Dogo"—doubled the lead in the 26th minute. Vincent sealed the win from the penalty spot, coolly sending the Shauri Moyo Pride goalkeeper the wrong way to wrap up a memorable five-goal thriller. Between the posts, NRS goalkeeper Verdict "Simo" pulled off a series of daring late saves to deny Shauri Moyo Pride an equalizer and protect the lead until the final whistle.
It was an encouraging opening outing for the Embakasi-based academy, which is making its inaugural appearance in a competitive league system since its formation. Beyond local honors, the FKF Makadara Youth League provides a critical platform for developing top-tier talent, with several NRS standout performers making a strong case for future Junior Harambee Stars call-ups.