Brian Opinde, the new centre-back for Nairobi City Stars, is filled with excitement and determination as he steps into the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) after making the leap from Division II football.
The promising young defender was scouted during the Safaricom Chapa Dimba tournament in Kisumu and has quickly found himself on one of Kenya’s top football stages.
Brian Opinde’s rise in Kenyan football has been meteoric. One moment, he was a player for Eldoret-based Langas Super Stars in Division II, and the next, he was signing for Nairobi City Stars, a club with a long history in the KPL. For Opinde, the opportunity to play at such a high level is a dream come true.
“I was playing in Division II one day, and now I’m here at City Stars. It’s hard to believe, but I’m excited to make the most out of this chance. It’s a huge step, and I’m determined to give my best,” Opinde said with enthusiasm.
Despite his lack of experience at the top level, Brian Opinde has adapted quickly to the demands of KPL football.
He was left out of City Stars’ 0-0 draw against Bidco United in the opening game of the season but was included on the bench during their 1-0 loss to Mara Sugar in the next match.
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Though he has not yet made his debut, Brian Opinde is using this time to prepare himself mentally and physically for when the opportunity comes.
“Watching from the bench in those games gave me a good understanding of how fast and intense the KPL is. It’s a different level, but I’ve learned a lot, and when it’s my time to step on the pitch, I’ll be ready,” Brian Opinde said, reflecting on his early experiences with the team.
Opinde has also been full of praise for the warm reception he has received from both the coaching staff and his teammates.
The training sessions have helped him settle in and understand City Stars’ style of play, something he feels confident about mastering. “The training has been intense, but I’ve quickly learned the team’s approach and philosophy. The coaches have been supportive, and I feel ready to make an impact when I get my chance,” Brian Opinde added.
Brian Opindeis not the only new face at City Stars. He is part of a group of four players signed by the club ahead of the new season. Joining him are Andre Kalama, a versatile forward, midfielder James SSemambo, and left-back Stephen Bulugu. Together, these new signings represent a fresh start for City Stars, who are aiming for a successful season in the KPL.
Each of these players brings something unique to the squad, and for Opinde, it’s an opportunity to learn from experienced players while contributing to the team’s ambitions. The 23-year-old center-back is focused on cementing his place in the first team, and he believes that his journey from Division II football has equipped him with the resilience and hunger to succeed at the top level.
“My goal is to break into the starting lineup and show what I can do. I know there’s competition, but I’m confident that with hard work, I’ll get there. I’m looking forward to contributing to the team’s success this season,” said Brian Opinde.
Nairobi City Stars are a team with high ambitions, and this season, they are looking to improve on last year’s performance. With the arrival of new signings like Brian Opinde the club hopes to add depth and quality to its squad, giving them a stronger chance of competing at the top end of the table.
One player who is especially motivated this season is winger Gilbert Abala, who is looking to make a significant impact after getting a taste of the KPL last year. Abala has been working hard in training to sharpen his game and improve his goal contributions, something he believes will be crucial to City Stars’ success.
“Last season was my first in the Kenyan Premier League, and I learned a lot. Now I know what it takes to succeed at this level, and I’m working hard every day in training to improve. My goal is to score more goals and provide assists for the team,” Abala said.
The blend of new talent and experienced players like Abala gives City Stars an exciting mix of youth and experience. Head coach Nicholas Muyoti is confident that with the right balance, his team can push for a higher finish in the league this season.
For Brian Opinde, the journey from Division II to the KPL has been an eye-opener, but it’s also filled him with motivation to prove himself at the highest level. The center-back is aware that the leap to top-flight football won’t be easy, but he is determined to make the most of this golden opportunity.
“My journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m here now, and I want to show everyone that I belong in the KPL. I’m giving everything in training to ensure that when my chance comes, I’ll be ready to help the team,” Brian Opinde said, sharing his determination to succeed.
As the season progresses, City Stars fans will be keeping an eye on their new signings, eager to see how players like Opinde and Abala develop throughout the year. For those who want to stay close to the action, Jambobet’s live betting platform offers an exciting way to follow every moment of City Stars’ campaign, making each game even more engaging.
With hard work and the right opportunities, Brian Opinde looks set to make his mark in the KPL. His journey is just beginning, and City Stars will hope that his presence in defense can help drive them to greater heights this season.
