Pamba Jiji head coach Francis Baraza has backed newly-promoted Migori Youth FC to be competitive and potentially emerge as one of the surprise packages in the FKF Premier League season.Baraza made the remarks after his Pamba Jiji side played out to a 2-2 draw with Migori Youth in an international friendly at the CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza, Tanzania.Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsThe former Kakamega Homeboyz tactician was impressed by Migori's ability to compete against established opposition, pointing to their recent 2-2 draw against Kenyan champions Gor Mahia as further evidence of their readiness for top-flight football.##NAJAVA_MECA_9999945##Migori twice took the lead against Gor Mahia before the defending champions fought back to secure a draw, a performance Baraza believes underlines the promoted side's competitive potential."I have watched them take Gor Mahia where they staged a good outing and equally picked a point from the match. Today, they have replicated the same performance. They took the lead twice in both matches and I believe they are well ready for the campaign," Baraza said.Mulee explains why coaching Harambee Stars is 'the most difficult job in the world'The former Sony Sugar coach, who has also guided teams in the FKFPL, however, identified fitness as an area Migori need to improve if they are to consistently hold on to leads against top-flight opposition."I can urge them to work more on their fitness levels, something I noticed as a concern because they dropped when it mattered most, especially when it came to protecting their leads. Once they are able to work on that, they will be good to go," he added.Stars Abroad: Harambee Stars forward on the scoresheet hours after returning from international footballDespite the concern, Baraza remained confident in the quality within Migori's squad and expects the club to make their presence felt when the league gets underway."I can confidently say they have a strong team capable of performing. I can rate them to cause an upset, but they won't go down. I foresee them being one of the surprising sides in the league," he said.Mombasa United coach reveals ingredient needed to overcome Sharks in second legMigori Youth secured promotion to the top flight after winning the 2025/26 National Super League (NSL) title, earning an automatic promotion to the top-flight league. Migori will begin their league campaign at home against Kenya Police FC.
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