The FKF National Super League kicks off this weekend after a 14-day delay, with 20 teams vying for promotion to the FKF Premier League.
Initially set to begin on September 7, 2024, the start was postponed by two weeks following a unanimous decision by club chairpersons, who cited the need for additional preparation time. This decision was well-received by many coaches, including Charles Odero, who has been tasked with guiding Nzoia Sugar back to the FKF Premier League.
“We started pre-season training late and weren’t fully prepared for the league to begin last weekend. I’m pleased with the postponement, as it gives us more time to work out our issues and get ready for the season,” said Odero. “These extra two weeks are invaluable because our pre-season preparation was behind schedule by about the same period. By the time the league begins, we will have completed six weeks of training, which is ideal for a new season.”
Nzoia Sugar, which recently reappointed Evance Kadenge as the club chairman, was relegated to the second tier after finishing bottom of the FKF Premier League table last season.
Muhoroni Youth FC, another team relegated from the top tier, is also set to compete in the second division this season. Chairman Moses Adagala, speaking to Mozzart Sport Kenya, reflected on the team’s previous campaign and outlined their goals for the upcoming season.
“It was a difficult season, and I’d prefer not to dwell on it. The league was decided at the last minute, and we were hit hard. Some suspicious and unusual things happened, but we leave that to God,” said Adagala. “We had a successful pre-season, and we’re relying on local players who have shown their potential. Our target is clear: we’re aiming for 90 points and 95 goals. We believe we can achieve this because nothing is impossible.”
Newcomers to the 2024/2025 National Super League Season
Three teams will make their debuts in the National Super League (NSL) this weekend, all hoping to secure promotion to the top tier.
AP Bomet will compete in the NSL for the first time after earning promotion by winning the FKF Division One Zone B. Led by coach Alfred Chole, the law enforcers edged out MOFA, Compel, and GFE 105 in a tightly contested race. This marks their second promotion to the NSL after their 2021 promotion was annulled for not meeting FKF regulations.
3K FC also clinched promotion on the final day of the season by winning their fixture while their rival, Fortune Sacco, lost. Fortune Sacco ultimately secured promotion through a one-off playoff, defeating Michael Olunga’s MOFA 3-0 at Dandora Stadium.
Despite losing the playoff, MOFA earned a spot in the NSL this season by acquiring Rainbow’s position. They will be led by Alfred Chole as they aim for promotion to the FKF Premier League.
Financial Struggles for National Super League Teams
Historically, second-tier teams in the NSL have faced significant financial challenges, which have negatively impacted the quality of the league.
Without a league sponsor or substantial support for individual clubs, teams often rely on well-wishers and gate collections, which has proven insufficient in the past. Mombasa United, in particular, has shown signs of financial strain even before the season begins. However, team manager Kenneth Juma remains optimistic.
“We don’t have a sponsor and rely on well-wishers to participate in the league, which is unsustainable,” said Juma. “Our goal is to win at least 28 matches, which is three-quarters of the league games. Despite the financial challenges, my players are motivated and ready to compete.”
NSL Round One Fixtures
Round one of the NSL promises to deliver excitement with 10 fixtures spread across the weekend.
Newcomers AP Bomet will host Mombasa United at Bomet Stadium on Saturday at 3 pm. Mombasa United, who rebranded from Mombasa Elite, finished 17th last season and will be hoping for a better performance this time around.
Nzoia Sugar will face another newcomer, Fortune Sacco, at Sudi Stadium on Saturday at 3 pm. The Millers have seen significant departures, with winger Emmanuel Osoro leaving for Talanta, Fredrick Munyendo joining KCB, and Victor Haki moving to Murang’a Seal. David Simiyu, who played for Nzoia in the second half of last season, has returned to his parent club, Police FC, following the expiration of his loan deal.
On Sunday, Naivas FC, who narrowly missed promotion after losing a playoff to Sofapaka, will take on MOFA at Kenyatta Stadium at 1 pm. New coach Elvis Ayani hopes to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor and guide the team to promotion.
2024/2025 National Super League Full Round One Fixtures
Saturday, 21st September 2024
Naivas FC vs MOFA FC | Kenyatta Stadium | 1pm
Nzoia Sugar vs Fortune Sacco | Sudi Stadium | 3pm
AP Bomet vs Mombasa United | Bomet Stadium | 3pm
Luanda Villa vs Kibera Blackstars | Mumboha Stadium | 3pm
Darajani Gogo vs Migori Youth |KIHBT Grounds | 3pm
Muhoroni Youth vs Dimba Patriots | Muhoroni Stadium| 3pm
Sunday, 22nd September 2024
MCF FC vs Vihiga United |Kenyatta Stadium | 1pm
Samwest Black Boots vs SS Assad |Vapor Grounds |2pm
Kisumu Allstars vs 3K FC |Moi Stadium | 3pm
Mombasa Stars vs Nairobi United FC | Serani Sports Club | 3pm