Uganda Cranes Defender Says Kenyan League Can Become One of Africa's Best

Newly signed Nairobi United defender Mustafa Kizza has drawn comparisons between the Kenyan and Ugandan football leagues following his recent move.

The Uganda Cranes international says he has already noticed positive changes, which he believes could see the Kenyan league rank among the best in Africa in the coming years.

He also pointed out the hospitality he has received so far in Kenya, noting that he can only pay back with great results on the pitch.

Mustafa Kizza is well placed to make the comparison, having previously featured for NEC FC, one of Uganda’s top-flight clubs.

“There is good quality in the league. The coverage that is here is top and I think it helps a lot of players. I think in the few years to come, it's going to be one of the top leagues in Africa,” Mustafa Kizza told reporters after Nairobi United’s 1-0 loss to Wydad AC.

“Yeah, actually, I feel good. I'm at home. They're treating me well. Yeah, and it's just all about me performing. They've been so welcoming, and they're nice people.

“But the weather is the same as in Uganda, so there's nothing about the weather. So, they are good people, and to be honest, they have treated me well as a player, and it has helped me to fit in very well.”

Speaking about the match, Mustafa Kizza explained that the technical bench had emphasised structure and match approach rather than assigning blame.

The defender noted that the guidance from the dugout remained encouraging despite the setback, with the staff continuing to back the players and offer direction aimed at strengthening cohesion.

Mustafa Kizza added that the squad was taking responsibility for its performance and focusing on learning from the experience.

He stressed that the team was committed to addressing its shortcomings collectively, using the lessons from the loss as motivation to grow stronger and deliver better results going forward.

“Also, you know, it's all about tactics, and I cannot come here and say the coach is saying this. But the coaches are always positive with us. They're trying to help us in any way. And we're trying to improve as a team,” he added.