As the FKF National Super League title race enters a defining stretch, MOFA FC vice-captain Alfred Maningi believes the White Rhinos are mentally and physically ready to handle the pressure that comes with the second leg of the campaign.

Speaking at the training ground ahead of MOFA’s crucial Friday fixture, Maningi revealed that the squad’s morale has remained high since the league resumed, describing the dressing room atmosphere as positive and focused. He acknowledged the challenges posed by an irregular match schedule, including the shift to a Friday kickoff, but dismissed suggestions of distractions or psychological games, insisting the team remains firmly aligned with the technical bench’s plans.

“We are ready for anything,” Maningi said. “This stage of the league comes with its own challenges, but as a team we are prepared to execute exactly what the coach has worked on with us. Our focus is on the pitch and nothing else.”

The midfielder brushed aside suggestions that the move to a Friday fixture could unsettle the squad, describing such concerns as irrelevant at this stage of the title chase.

“There are no mind games for us,” he added. “Whether it’s a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, the responsibility is the same. The instructions from the coach are clear, and our task is to execute them on the pitch.”

Friday’s encounter carries personal significance for Maningi, who is set to face familiar opponents in Mombasa United. The experienced midfielder spent 8 formative years with the coastal sides Coast stars and later Mombasa united during the early stages of his career , a period that shaped his development before his move away. He joined MOFA FC during the January 2025 transfer window and has since established himself as a key figure within the squad.

Operating primarily as a deep-lying midfielder but also capable of slotting into defense, Maningi’s consistency and leadership have seen him rise quickly through the ranks. In less than two years at the club, he has earned the vice-captaincy, a role that reflects both his experience and influence within the dressing room.

MOFA currently sit third on the National Super League table with 38 points and a game in hand, just five points behind their Friday opponents, who lead the standings. With promotion firmly within reach, the White Rhinos are eager to translate their intensity on the training ground into a statement performance on matchday.

Maningi also took the opportunity to rally the club’s supporters, urging them to turn up in large numbers and back the team during what promises to be a defining fixture in the promotion run-in. He assured fans that the squad is ready to deliver a performance worthy of the occasion.

With MOFA firmly among the frontrunners for promotion to the SportPesa League, Friday’s clash carries significant weight. A positive result would not only strengthen their title push but also reinforce their credentials as serious contenders for a return to the top flight.