Can defending champions Tusker throw off the burden of their Caf Champions League catastrophe and, perhaps, rip Talanta apart at Ruaraka grounds on Wednesday afternoon?
That is head coach Robert Matano's main headache as he bids for his first win of the season that could put his side on course for a second consecutive title.
In a bizarre twist of fate, the brewers succumbed to a shock 1-0 defeat at the hands of AFC Leopards in their opening fixture after plunging enormous resources into the transfer market to net the creme de la creme of top-flight football.
The outcome hurled Tusker into the rump of the table and a further loss to Talanta might evaporate their bubbling spirits.
However, Matano, who is also known as 'The Lion' insists he enjoys enough depth in his talent-rich squad to bounce back from the setback.
"The league has only begun. We started off badly in the last season as well but eventually ended up running away with the title," said Matano bullishly.
"I'm glad we managed to bring some top class players on board. You've seen what our newly acquired players are capable of doing in the few matches they have featured in, more so the continental assignments," he added.
Rising from the ashes of a humiliating 5-0 drubbing by traditional Egyptian giants, Zamalek, is already too much to ask for given the far-reaching psychological implications and the big toll the torrid North African climate had on the entire squad.
They may, however, find strength and consolation in the remote thought of having edged Gor Mahia 8-7 to clinch the FKF Super Cup at Thika Stadium on September 22.
Talanta head into the match high on confidence after outclassing fellow debutants Vihiga Bullets 2-0 at Kasarani Annex over the weekend. It was their first win of the season that came hot on the heels of two consecutive one-all draws against top flight giants Wazito and KCB.
Gor Mahia face Kariobangi Sharks at Moi Stadium, Kasarani in the other match of the day. Gor have won all their two fixtures this season and are currently placed seventh on the log with six points.
Head coach Mark Harrison says he is aware of the high expectations placed on his shoulders by K'Ogalo's demanding fans.
“My vision and goals are no different from the club. I want to win every game. If possible, we will do it. I am a winner and I am looking forward to a successful season with my players," he said.
Harrison says he intends to entertain the club's loyal fanbase with classic football.
“I want to win trophies in style. We want to create a nice brand of football that will entertain our supporters. Don't expect to see any long balls from us because that's not my kind of business,” said Harrison.
