The latest weekend action in the FKF Premier League delivered excitement, drama, and tactical insights as teams battled to solidify their positions. Pressure is mounting on several coaches, while others celebrate hard-fought results. From Kariobangi Sharks holding FC Talanta, to AFC Leopards’ turbulent clash with Ulinzi Stars, here’s a comprehensive look at the weekend’s highlights.
Sofapaka outclass Kakamega Homeboyz to continue with unbeaten run after a disastrous start.
1 time Kenya Premier League Champions Sofapaka continued with their impressive run as they put 2 goals pasts struggling Kakamega Homeboyz.The Matano coached side took the lead early in the first half after a nice play between Ronald Ssempala and Baron Ochieng’ who slotted in home to open his account with the Batoto Ba Mungu this season.The Kenya U20 star was involved again his defense cutting cross falling on the feet of former Kakamega Homeboyz defender John Otieno who slotted it in to make it 2-0.
Pressure Mounting on Jackline Juma as Talanta Drops Points Again
FC Talanta’s head coach Jackline Juma, the first female coach in Kenya’s top-flight football, is under increasing scrutiny after a 1-1 draw with Kariobangi Sharks on Saturday at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. This result extends Talanta’s winless streak to five games, putting pressure on Juma, whose team initially looked promising after a narrow 1-0 victory over Sofapaka in the season opener.
The Sharks dominated possession but were caught off guard in the 20th minute when Talanta’s Alex Kipruto netted the opener, showcasing his skill by evading Frédérick Alushula and sending a low drive past the Sharks’ defense. Sharks created several chances but were wasteful in front of goal, as highlighted by a first-half missed opportunity by Victor Ngume, whose header struck the crossbar. Ngume redeemed himself in the 59th minute, poking in the equalizer after Talanta failed to clear a free kick, his first league goal for that club.
Despite the draw, Juma faces an uphill task to revive Talanta’s form. The match showed signs of potential but exposed issues in maintaining consistency. Kariobangi Sharks’ assistant coach Ezekiel Seda, filling in for head coach William Muluya who was away on national duty, noted, “The result is not ideal for us, especially since we controlled the game. We need to find that clinical edge in the final third.” Seda, who also oversaw Sharks’ 1-1 draw with Shabana the previous week, expressed his team’s determination to regain winning form.
Mathare United Ends KCB’s Unbeaten Start
Mathare United delivered an upset by ending KCB’s unbeaten start to the season with a 1-0 victory at Dandora Stadium. Meshack Ochieno was the star of the game, netting his debut goal for Mathare in the 55th minute. After cutting inside from the left flank, Starlon Odhiambo sent a precise low cross to Ochieno, who coolly slotted it past Bonphas Munyasa.
Mathare’s victory was bolstered by their goalkeeper, Michael Wanyika, whose second-half saves denied KCB’s attempts to equalize. Mathare had to rely on a disciplined performance from a squad missing four key players suspended due to disciplinary issues. Despite the absences, they showcased resilience, securing their third win of the season and a second clean sheet. Head coach John Kamau praised his squad’s depth and determination, saying, “Our team showed great discipline today. The boys stepped up, especially those filling in for the suspended players. We are looking forward to building on this performance.”
Mara Sugar’s Dream Start Continues, Bidco United Struggles
Newcomers Mara Sugar continued their impressive start to their debut FKF Premier League season with a 2-0 win over Bidco United.Meshack Karani and Michael Isabwa struck in the first half, securing a vital win that keeps Mara Sugar in the league’s top positions with 14 points.
Mara’s head coach, George Midenyo, attributed the team’s success to a focused training regimen and experience within the squad. “Our players have gelled well, and the experienced members are setting the tone for this young team. We’re enjoying the start to the season, but we’re cautious to stay consistent,” Midenyo remarked. Meanwhile, Bidco’s struggles have intensified, with head coach Anthony Akhulia under pressure after securing just one win in seven matches.
Nairobi City Stars Edge Shabana, Leaving Them Winless
Shabana FC’s woes continued as Nairobi City Stars handed them a 1-0 defeat at Gusii Stadium, courtesy of an early goal from Mohamed Bajaber in the fifth minute. Shabana, the only team yet to secure a win this season, will be looking to make tactical adjustments as they prepare for a managerial change, expected later in the week. This recent loss highlights the club’s ongoing challenges in adapting to the top-tier league.
City Stars’ coach Muyoti expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance. “We’re glad to come away with the win. Shabana put up a strong fight, but we remained focused and executed our plan well,” he stated.
AFC Leopards Fans Demand Answers after Ulinzi Defeat
AFC Leopards’ 2-0 loss to Ulinzi Stars at Kinoru Stadium led to a chaotic post-match scene, as frustrated Ingwe fans stormed the pitch, demanding accountability from head coach Tomas Trucha. Ulinzi, who are gaining momentum after a shaky start, secured their victory with second-half goals from Yakeen Mutheli and Boniface Muchiri.
Leopards’ fans had warned Trucha of their dissatisfaction before the match, sharing warning letters on social media. Following the game, tensions boiled over, and police intervened with teargas to disperse the fans. Trucha was safely escorted from the field, but the club’s fan base remains on edge due to recent disappointing results. Ulinzi head coach Nyaudo praised his team’s improved form, saying, “This win means a lot to us, and it’s a testament to the work we’ve put in. Our focus now is on maintaining this momentum.”
Gor Mahia’s Late Collapse Against Murang’a SEAL
In another thrilling encounter, defending champions Gor Mahia squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Murang’a SEAL at Kenyatta Stadium. Gor took the lead with goals from Shariff Musa and Musa Masika but was undone by a late comeback from SEAL, who scored through Joe Waithira in the 52nd minute and Elly Saenyi in stoppage time.
Murang’a SEAL’s head coach Abdalla Juma revealed a key tactical change that spurred their comeback. “We brought on Nico to partner with Joe [Waithira] in attack, which shifted the dynamics. Our players executed well, and it paid off,” Juma explained. Despite the setback, Gor Mahia coach Leonardo Neiva remains optimistic about his team’s prospects, saying, “We had control, but we need to maintain our focus till the end. It’s something we’ll work on.”
The stoppage time equalizer infuriated Kogalo fans who wanted to question the coach on why the club failed to win ,the chaos resulted in teargas canisters being unleashed by the police to save the coach from irate fans.Gor Mahia will be seeking to bounce back as they take on Bandari at Ukunda Showground from 3pm on Wednesday
Rescheduled FKF Premier League Fixtures
WEDNESDAY
Bandari vs Gor Mahia at Ukunda Showground
Sofapaka vs Kenya Police at Dandora Stadium
Kick Off:3pm