The FKF Premier League returned this weekend with thrilling encounters, unexpected outcomes, and standout individual performances that showcased the vibrancy of Kenyan football. From Gor Mahia’s late surge in Homa Bay to Tusker’s Ryan Ogam stealing the show at St. Sebastian Park, the league delivered yet another memorable weekend.
Gor Mahia’s Late Charge at Raila Odinga Stadium
Gor Mahia kept their title hopes alive with a 2-0 victory over Mara Sugar at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay. Former Prime Minister and Gor Mahia patron Raila Odinga was in attendance, adding a touch of gravitas to the occasion.
The match remained goalless for 87 minutes, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm. It wasn’t until Rooney Onyango’s brilliant play on the edge of the box that Gor Mahia finally broke the deadlock. His precise cross found Austin Odhiambo unmarked in the penalty area, and the midfielder made no mistake, heading the ball past Felix Adoyo.
Gor Mahia sealed their win in stoppage time when Congolese forward Gideon Bandeka converted a selfless pass from Odhiambo into an open net, ensuring a morale-boosting victory for the defending champions.
Zedekiah “Zico” Otieno, Gor Mahia’s new coach, seems to have steadied the ship after a turbulent start to the season. Speaking after the match, Otieno praised his players for their resilience. “The boys showed character, ” he said.
Shabana Stunned by Ten-Man Kakamega Homeboyz
Shabana’s three-game winning streak came to an abrupt halt with a 2-0 loss to Kakamega Homeboyz at Mumias Complex. Despite enjoying a numerical advantage for over half an hour, the Glamour Boys failed to breach Homeboyz’s defense.
Early goals from Moses Shummah and Glen Otunga gave Homeboyz the lead. A second-half red card for Gospel Otieno added pressure on the hosts, but goalkeeper James Ssetuba stood tall, making critical saves to deny Shabana.
Shabana’s head coach, Peter Okidi, criticized the officiating, particularly surrounding Otunga’s goal. “We felt hard done by some decisions, but we also missed clear chances,” Okidi lamented.
Tusker’s Ogam Hits a Hat-Trick
At St. Sebastian Park, Tusker FC’s Ryan Ogam delivered a masterclass in finishing, scoring all three goals in their 3-1 victory over Murang’a Seal.
Ogam opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a deft chip over Joseph Okoth and added a second two minutes later with a stunning volley from a George Kaddu throw-in. His third, a simple tap-in from Fabian Adikiny’s flick, came in stoppage time and brought his season tally to 10 goals.
Tusker head coach Okere was effusive in his praise. “Ryan is proving to be an incredible asset. His hunger and precision are unmatched,” Matano said post-match.
Leopards Claw Back Against Kenya Police
AFC Leopards ended their five-game winless run with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kenya Police at Dandora Stadium. The decisive moment came in the 75th minute when Kennedy Owino capitalized on a rebound from an Ovella Ochieng free-kick.
Interim coach Fred Ambani, overseeing his first game in charge, expressed his delight. “The energy and commitment from the players were commendable. This win is for our fans,” Ambani said.
Kenya Police’s new coach, Etienne Ndayiragije, faced a baptism of fire, with his team now languishing at the bottom of the table.
Sofapaka’s Revival and Sharks’ Misery
Sofapaka ended a three-match winless streak with a 2-1 victory over Kariobangi Sharks at Dandora Stadium. Victor Okello and Joseph Kuloba scored for Sofapaka, while Fredrick Alushula netted a consolation for Sharks, who have now gone seven games without a win.
Sofapaka’s win lifted them to eighth place, while Sharks dropped to seventh. “We needed this win to restore confidence,” Sofapaka’s coach Robert Matano said.
Talanta and Mathare Share Spoils
FC Talanta and Nairobi City Stars played out a goalless draw at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. The match, though uneventful, highlighted both teams’ struggle to find consistent form this season.
Mathare United also held Ulinzi Stars to a barren draw at Kinoru Stadium, a result that kept both teams stuck in mid-table mediocrity.
Weekend Standouts and Implications
- Gor Mahia’s resurgence under Zico has them back in the title race, but consistency will be key.
- Tusker’s Ogam is emerging as a strong contender for the Golden Boot. His partnership with Kaddu could be pivotal for Tusker’s campaign.
- Shabana’s inability to capitalize on their numerical advantage against Homeboyz raises questions about their composure in pressure situations.
As the league gathers pace, fans can expect more drama, goals, and surprises in the coming weeks. This weekend reaffirmed the unpredictability of Kenyan football and the brilliance of its talents, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.