Kurunzi Sports

Category: Football

What is trending in football

  • Junior Stars depart to Ethiopia for u-17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers

    Junior Stars depart to Ethiopia for u-17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers

    Kenya’s Junior Stars travelled to Ethiopia Monday (today) for the u-17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers, scheduled for 15 November to 2 December, in Ethiopia.

    Junior Stars have been placed in Group A alongside Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, and Rwanda. They will be fighting for one of the two available slots for the 2026 u-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

    On Saturday head coach William Muluya announced his final 25-man squad for the tournament featuring a blend of of talented young players, most of whom were selected from school teams after impressing during regional scouting and training camps.

    The ten-nation tournament will see the top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals. The semi-final winners will move on to the final, while the losers will compete for third place. The finalists will secure spots in the 2026 u-17 continental showpiece.

    Muluya’s final squad includes goalkeepers Georgian Chris, Golan Oliech, and William Owino. The defence will be anchored by Cosmas Asunga, Eugene Ochieng, Nevil Simiyu, Stephen Ochieng, Edwin Annan, Raphael Omondi, Brighton Moses, Julius Ochieng, and Trevor Maluki.

    In midfield, Derrick Mchiti, Wayne Wamaya, Derrick Khatete, Rayse Ochieng, Armstrong Omondi, Brighton Nacheri, and Denzel Omollo will provide creativity and control.

    The forward line features Nicholas Onyango, Trevor Nasasiro, Nathan Achola, Collins Ochieng, Jeconia Agutu, and Marcos William, who will lead the team’s attack.

    Muluya will be assisted by Peter Okidi and Kenedy Mbunga. Abdul Iddi Salim will handle the goalkeepers, while Eric Muranda oversees strength and conditioning. Stephen Mwangi serves as the kit manager, Andrew Ijela as the safeguarding officer, Edwin Gumbo as the team doctor, and Shaban Masika as the team manager.

    Muluya’s charges will be keen to end the long wait back to the biennial African youth football tournament since last appearance in 2007.

    Elsewhere, Uganda will now host the for the second year running, been selected to host the CAF African Schools Football CECAFA Zonal qualifiers 2025-2026 after the tournament was moved from Ethiopia.

    CECAFA Interim Executive Director Jean Sseninde confirmed the changes to the venue and dates in a statement but did not provide reasons for the move.

    The tournament originally scheduled to take place in Ethiopia from 15 November to 4 December will now be held in from 6-9 December.

    “We are happy to announce that the regional qualifiers for the CECAFA Zone will now be hosted by Uganda from December 6-9, 2025,” said Sseninde.

    “This is a very important competition to have the youngsters compete at the Zonal level for boys and girls. We thank Uganda for accepting to host the tournament.”

    He added that alongside the competition, CAF will continue its capacity-building programs, including the Young Reporters, Young Referees, and Young Medical Officers initiatives, as well as the CAF D License Coaching Course and CAF Safeguarding workshops.

    Since its launch by CAF President Patrice Motsepe in 2022, the CAF African Schools Championship has seen strong performances from CECAFA Zone teams. The first tournament, held in Durban in 2023, crowned Guinea’s CS Ben Sekou Sylla as boys’ champions and Tanzania’s Fountain Gate School as girls’ winners.

    In 2024, Zanzibar hosted the second edition, where Tanzania took the boys’ title and South Africa won the girls’ trophy. This year, Ghana hosted the third edition, with Tanzania retaining the boys’ crown and the hosts defeating Uganda to claim the girls’ championship.

  • FKF-PL: Nairobi United thrash Sharks as Leopards, Police unbeaten run ends

    FKF-PL: Nairobi United thrash Sharks as Leopards, Police unbeaten run ends

    The FKF Premier League 2025/26 season continues to gather momentum with game week eight serving the football fanatics some tantalizing encounters.

    The highlight of the weekend saw newbies Nairobi United jump to third in the standings after thrashing Kariobangi Sharks 4-2 in a six goal thriller at the Dandora Stadium on Saturday.

    The Naibois came from behind to pick their fourth win of the season from six outings thanks to a brace from Nigerian import Michael Karamor and a goal a piece from Enoch Machaka and Lesley Owino.

    Sharks had taken the lead in the first minute after Frankline Omollo found the net while Humphrey Aroko got the second .

    Record champions Gor Mahia climbed to the summit of the table after a powerful 0-2 win over Kenya Police FC at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday afternoon thanks to superb strikes from the in-form Felix Oluoch and the dynamic winger Shariff Musa.

    The win – Gor Mahia’s fifth of the season – took them above previous leaders Kakamega Homeboyz with 16 points, while Police, who suffered their first defeat under new coach Dusan Stojanovic, dropped to 11th with eight points from five matches.

    At Ulinzi Sports Complex, Shabana FC returned to winning ways after edging out Ulinzi Stars 1-0 in a tightly contested encounter on Sunday afternoon. A 15th-minute strike from Mark Okola was enough to hand the Glamour Boys their first-ever league victory over Ulinzi Stars since their return to the top flight.

    The win not only ended Shabana’s brief winless run but also boosted their confidence as they look to climb up the league standings in the coming fixtures. Shabana now sit eighth on 11 points from eight matches,

    Elsewhere in Awendo, AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani was critical of the Awendo Stadium playing surface after the club succumbed to their first loss of the season to Mara Sugar.

    In his post-match press conference, Ambani noted the poor state of the playing surface may have played a part in AFC Leopards‘ defeat.

    “As I said before at the start, the field itself is not up to standard. You cannot do what you had planned on this surface. Even stringing two or three passes together becomes difficult,” he stated after suffering a two nil defeat.

    Prior to this match, Leopards were on a 14 matches unbeaten streak and were just one of the two unbeaten teams in the 2025/26 season alongside Kenya Police- who later lost to Gor Mahia.

    Elsewhere in other games, last minute equalizers from Bandari and APS Bomet saw both KCB and Mathare United fail to bounce back to winning ways on a dramatic afternoon in the league.

    KCB, who came into the weekend on the back of three consecutive defeats, looked home and dry when Richard Omondi headed in the opener after 65 minutes, only for the hosts to level in the fifth minute of added time through Abdallah Hassan.

    A similar plot was played out at a muddy Kericho Green Stadium, when Mathare United took a 56th minute lead through on-form Elli Asieche, only for Hansel Ochieng to equalize for league debutants APS Bomet from the spot in stoppage time.

    The results meant all of Mathare United, KCB and Bandari remained in the bottom half in position 13, 14 and 15 respectively, while APS Bomet remained rooted in last place with a paltry five points.

    On Friday, 7 November, Tusker returned to winning ways with a decisive 1-0 victory over Bidco United, courtesy of a clinical third-minute strike from Dennis Oalo.

    The win extended their unbeaten streak to four matches, lifting them to sixth place on 12 points, just four behind the league leaders.

    Speaking after the match, Okere reflected on the importance of the management’s patience during the club’s rough patch.

    “I want to thank the players, the technical bench, but most importantly, the management. We urged them to be patient as we worked on improving results. We assured them the outcomes would come, and I am grateful for their trust. Results do not come instantly; even Rome was not built in a day,” he said.

  • 2025 FIFA U17: First-ever 48-team World Cup underway in Qatar

    2025 FIFA U17: First-ever 48-team World Cup underway in Qatar

    The 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup, the first in history to feature 48 teams, got off to a spectacular start in Qatar on Monday as the hosts took on Italy at the world-famous Aspire Zone in Doha.

    Qatar narrowly lost 1–0 to Italy in front of a vibrant home crowd at the newly renamed Mansour Muftah pitch, one of eight venues within the Aspire Zone honoring Qatari football legends. A total of eight matches marked the opening day of this expanded global showpiece.

    “We are proud to host the first-ever 48-team FIFA tournament, which will showcase exceptional emerging talent and celebrate football’s power to unite the world,” said HE Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, chairman of the Local Organizing Committee.

    The 48 nations are divided into 12 groups of four, with the tournament running until 27 November. All matches are being staged in the Aspire Zone, except for the final at Khalifa International Stadium, amounting to a record 104 matches across eight pitches.

    Five nations — Fiji, Republic of Ireland, Zambia, El Salvador, and Uganda — are making their U17 World Cup debuts.

    Day One Highlights

    Italy Edge Spirited Hosts

    Qatar’s passionate fans created a deafening atmosphere, but Italy held firm for a hard-fought 1–0 win. Samuele Inacio scored the decisive goal in the first half, finishing clinically from Benit Borasio’s through ball. The hosts battled bravely but couldn’t find an equaliser.

    “We stayed focused and together. This win gives us confidence to go far,” said Inacio, named Player of the Match.
    “We competed against a really strong team. I’m proud of my players, and we’ll come back stronger against South Africa,” added Qatar coach Alvaro Mejia.

    Ten-Man South Africa Stun Bolivia

    A resilient South Africa defied the odds to beat Bolivia 3–1, even after Sive Pama was sent off midway through the first half. Emile Witbooi, Neo Bohloko, and Shaun Els were on target for the young Bafana Bafana, while Jesus Maraude scored Bolivia’s consolation from the spot.

    “We kept pushing each other even with ten men — it’s all about teamwork,” said South African midfielder Kamohelo Mareletse, the match’s standout performer.

    Japan Power Past Morocco

    Asian giants Japan continued their fine U17 pedigree, opening their sixth consecutive tournament with a 2–0 victory over Morocco. Taiga Seguchi broke the deadlock with a stunning first-time strike after fine work from Hiroto Asada, before Daigo Hirashima sealed the win late on.

    “It was a tough match where one goal could change everything. Once we scored, we controlled the game well,” said Japan coach Nozomi Hiroyama.
    Morocco’s Nabi Baha urged calm: “It’s a tough defeat, but we’ll make amends against Portugal. We have faith in these players.”

    Portugal Hit Five Past New Caledonia

    After a sluggish start, Portugal recovered from conceding an early penalty to thrash New Caledonia 5–1. Anísio Cabral led the comeback with two goals, supported by strikes from Stevan Manuel, Mateus Mide, Mauro Furtado, and José Neto.

    “We lacked efficiency early on but kept calm and took control in the second half,” said Portugal coach Bino Macaês.

    Costa Rica Hold UAE Despite Red Card

    Down to ten men, Costa Rica battled for a 1–1 draw against United Arab Emirates. After Isaac Badilla saw red, UAE went ahead through Mayed Adel, but Nick Bennette equalised moments later with a composed finish.

    “We held on despite being a man down. The next match against Senegal will be close, but we’re ready,” said Bennette.

    Tunisia Thrash Fiji

    Tunisia delivered the day’s biggest statement with a 6–0 demolition of Fiji, their vibrant attacking play marking them as early contenders. Wassim Slama and Fedi Tayechi bagged braces, while Anisse Saidi and Saifedin Haj Abdallah completed the rout.

    “The first 30 minutes were tough, but we found space and pushed hard,” said Tayechi, who collected the Player of the Match award. “We came here with ambition — not just to make up the numbers.”

    Argentina Edge Belgium in Thriller

    In one of the most entertaining matches of the opening day, Argentina edged Belgium 3–2. Ramiro Tulian put Argentina ahead before Arthur De Kimpe and Stan Naert turned the game for Belgium. But substitutes Facundo Jainikoski and Felipe Esquivel struck within four minutes to seal a dramatic comeback win for Diego Placente’s side.

    “Belgium are a top team — physical, technical, and well-organised. I’m proud of our boys for showing character to come back twice,” said Placente, Argentina’s head coach.

    Voices from the Camp

    The opening day also highlighted the excitement of debutants and returning powers alike.

    “We’re united, and our strength is collective. We’ll push one another to go far,” said Etienne Mendy, Senegal forward, whose team drew 1–1 with Croatia.
    “It was a tough opponent, but one point is a good start. We’ll build on it,” added Jona Benkotic, Croatia winger.

    A Promising Start

    Matchday One delivered 27 goals across eight games, thrilling crowds and setting the tone for an action-packed tournament. From debutant nations making history to traditional powerhouses flexing early muscle, the expanded U17 World Cup has already lived up to its billing.

  • Shikanda: Leopards will win the league if “wrangles” are avoided

    Shikanda: Leopards will win the league if “wrangles” are avoided

    Former AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda has expressed strong confidence that the club will finally end their 27-year wait for a league title — but only if “stupid wrangles are avoided.”

    Shikanda, who stepped down in June after completing two terms in office, believes the Fred Ambani-coached side has all the ingredients to lift the 2025/26 Football Kenya Federation Premier League crown.

    “This is the year AFC Leopards will win the league,” Shikanda told SPM Buzz TV. “We left a solid unit when we finished the season last year, playing attractive football. They started slowly, but I told people to stop doubting them — they just needed time.”

    Leopards fondly known as Ingwe began the campaign with three consecutive draws but have since hit form, stringing together three straight wins to extend their unbeaten run to 14 matches. They currently sit among the top contenders, just two points behind leaders Kakamega Homeboyz and one adrift of Gor Mahia, with a game in hand.

    Shikanda insists that beyond tactics and signings, stability — both on and off the pitch — will determine whether Leopards finally reclaim their lost glory.

    “It will not be won because of a good chairman or a good coach, but because of a good team,” he stressed. “The fans need to be patient. Rome was not built in a day. Give the coach time, give the leadership time — and to the players, they must play for themselves and for the club.”

    Avoiding Wrangles and Building Unity

    The “wrangles” Shikanda refers to are the off-pitch leadership disputes that have occasionally distracted the 12-time champions in recent years. He warns that unless such divisions are contained, they could derail Leopards’ title charge once again.

    “I am very confident AFC Leopards will win the league this season if these stupid wrangles are avoided,” he said. “The team has gelled well — they’ve only added two new players to the starting eleven — and they play with confidence and purpose.”

    Since Bonface Ambani, a former Harambee Stars and Leopards striker, took over as chairman, the club has enjoyed a renewed sense of direction. Under Fred Ambani, the team has blended experienced campaigners with promising talents like James Kinyanjui, whose creativity and energy have been vital in their unbeaten run.

    A Team Built for Success

    AFC Leopards’ recent upturn began after early season frustrations. After draws with Bandari (0-0), Posta Rangers (2-2), and Sofapaka (1-1), pressure mounted on Ambani’s technical bench, with some fans calling for his sacking. But the team responded emphatically — beating KCB and Shabana by identical 2-1 margins before dispatching Mathare United 2-0 last weekend.

    Shikanda credits this resurgence to smart recruitment and squad cohesion. He lauded signings such as Kinyanjui, Samuel Sseeyonjo, Elias Mugane, Brian Ojok, and Tyson Otieno as impactful additions.

    “The team started sluggishly, but I told people it is well-oiled and properly structured. The new signings have added depth and competition to an already solid unit,” he said. “Despite the distractions off the pitch, this is a team ready to fight for the title.”

    Patience and Perspective

    Shikanda, who featured for Leopards in the 1980s before playing for Gor Mahia, sees a familiar hunger in the current squad.

    “Playing in the 80s opened doors for me, and I’m sure doors will open for them if they perform well,” he said. “Success brings its own rewards — I am a living example of that.”

    As the 2025/26 FKF Premier League season gathers pace, optimism among Leopards supporters continues to rise. The pieces appear to be falling into place: a united leadership, a confident coach, and a determined squad.

    For Shikanda, however, the path to glory remains simple — discipline, patience, and unity.

    “We have a team that can do it,” he concluded. “Now, it’s just about everyone pulling in the same direction.”

  • Champions League preview: Ruler of Europe welcomes mighty Bayern

    Champions League preview: Ruler of Europe welcomes mighty Bayern

    A true spectacle awaits tonight — in one of Europe’s biggest derbies, at the Parc des Princes, as Paris Saint Germain the defending champions welcome red hot Bayern Munich in a high-stakes clash between the top two teams in the Champions League league phase.

    “We’re in a very good position, we feel ready and fit. There’s a lot of anticipation but also tension, of course. These are two teams who are right at the top level,” said Bayern board member for sport Max Eberl.

    Bayern have been sensational this season, recording 15 wins from 15 games — a remarkable run unmatched across Europe’s top leagues. Last weekend, Vincent Kompany’s side impressed again with a 3-0 home victory over Bayer 04 Leverkusen. In the Champions League, the Bavarians have already secured convincing wins over Chelsea (3-1), Paphos (5-1), and Club Brugge (4-0).

    Despite sitting second in the group, Bayern are level on points and goal difference with PSG, trailing only because the Parisians have scored more goals. “We’ve earned the right to go in there full of enthusiasm. It has to be rock ‘n’ roll. They have confidence, we have confidence — it’s going to be a great game,” said Kompany.

    The fixture promises excitement beyond the table. Past encounters between the two sides have always delivered top-quality football. Last season, Bayern edged PSG 1-0 in the league phase but lost 2-0 in the Club World Cup quarter-finals over the summer. “The last few games have always been evenly matched, and the team that scored first usually won. It will be a cracker. We’re going there with confidence and hope to win,” said Serge Gnabry.

    Joshua Kimmich also noted the growing rivalry between the clubs. “It feels like we play against PSG every year,” he said, adding clearly, “We’re going there to win.”

    PSG, like Bayern, are among just five teams to have claimed nine points from three Champions League games this season. The French champions showcased their European ambitions with dominant wins over Atalanta (4-0), Barcelona (2-1), and Bayer 04 Leverkusen (7-2).

    However, domestically, PSG have faced some stumbles. A recent 1-1 draw at Lorient and a narrow 1-0 home win over Nice — secured by Goncalo Ramos in stoppage time — have dented their Ligue 1 confidence slightly. Yet Luis Enrique’s side still leads the table by two points over Marseille.

    Despite injuries in attack — including Ballon d’Or winnerOusmane Dembele and currently sidelined Desire Doue — PSG remain potent offensively, as highlighted by the seven-goal haul in Leverkusen. The supporting line ofSenny Mayulu, Bradley Barcola, and Goncalo Ramoscontinues to perform at a high level.

    Enrique praised his team’s resilience after the late win against Nice: “It’s great that we all have this mentality.”

    Aside from long-term absentees Alphonso Davies, Hiroki Ito, and Jamal Musiala, the rest of the squad traveled to Paris. Ito even completed the final training session with the team. PSG will be without Desire Doue (muscle strain) and Ilya Zabarnyi (suspension) against Bayern.

    In another much anticipated match, Liverpool welcome record champions Real Madrid at Anfield.

    The potential return of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Anfield will be an intriguing subplot to this blockbuster tie, after the former Liverpool right-back departed for Real Madrid in the summer.

    He has struggled for playing time in Spain and was an unused substitute in Real Madrid’s last two matches, so it remains to be seen how much – if at all – he will play here.

    “I can only tell you what reception he [Trent] gets from me. I have great memories of the player and human, my vice-captain,” Liverpool head coach Arne Slot said at his pre-match press conference.

    “I have memories working with him that are only positive. I watched him in front of the television and only great memories of him in a Liverpool shirt. He will get a warm welcome from me but let’s see how our fans react, I have no clue. A warm welcome from me, that is for certain.”

    Liverpool benefited from some good fortune to beat Aston Villa on Saturday for only their second win in eight across all competitions. Their other was a 5-1 Champions League thrashing of Eintracht Frankfurt, which put Arne Slot’s side 10th in the standings.

    Slot confirms Isak, Alisson, and Frimpong out for Champions League clash.

    Tuesday’s visitors, Real Madrid, have been almost unstoppable under former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso this season. In addition to holding a five-point lead at the top of LaLiga, they have a perfect record of three wins from three in Europe.

    They head into this match off the back of a 4-0 victory over Valencia, and have lost just once in all competitions this season.

    These two teams also met in the league phase of this competition last year, when Liverpool triumphed 2-0 at Anfield, halting an eight-game losing run against their Spanish opponents.

    UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE – MATCHDAY 4

    Tuesday

    Napoli vs Eintracht Frankfurt

    Slavia Praha vs Arsenal

    Atletico Madrid vs Union SG

    Bodo vs Monaco

    Juventus vs Sporting

    Olympiakos vs PSV

    Tottenham vs Copenhagen

    Wednesday

    Paphos vs Villareal

    Qarabag vs Chelsea

    Ajax vs Galatasaray

    Benfica vs Leverkusen

    Club Brugge vs Barcelona

    Inter vs Kairat Almaty

    Man.City vs Dortmund

    Newcastle vs Ath. Bilbao

    Olympique Marseille vs Atalanta

  • FKFPL Preview: Gor face Ulinzi, Homeboyz welcome Tusker with six matches on

    FKFPL Preview: Gor face Ulinzi, Homeboyz welcome Tusker with six matches on

    After three fixtures on Saturday the FKF Premier League 2025/26 season round seven continues today with six matches lined up across different venues.

    On Staurday, 2009 league champions Sofapaka produced a clinical performance to hand debutants and Kenya’s CAF Confederation Cup representatives Nairobi United a 3-0 defeat at Dandora Stadium.

    The breakthrough came in the 13th minute when Batoto Ba Mungu broke for a counter with Lugalia’s clever pass finding Kuloba , who calmly slotted home to give the visitors an early lead.

    In the second half, Sofapaka looked more dangerous.

    In the 85th minute, substitute Bramwel Simiyu doubled Sofapaka’s lead with a thunderous strike that left goalkeeper Benard Jairo rooted to the spot. Three minutes later, Japheth Mzungu, who had been lively throughout the match, sealed the win with a low drive into the far corner to make it 3-0.

    Meanwhile, in Awendo, Mara Sugar settled for yet another home draw after being held to a goalless stalemate by Bandari FC, marking the visitors’ fourth draw on the road this season.

    Elsewhere, Shabana FC failed to make the most of their opportunities despite dominating Kariobangi Sharks, as the two sides settled for a goalless SportPesa League draw on Saturday evening at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The stalemate extends a poor run of form for the Kisii-based outfit, who have now gone five matches without a victory.

    Kakamega Homeboyz still top the table on 13 points one ahead of Gor Mahia and two more than Posta Rangers, with all three clubs in action today. At the other end of the table, Kenya Police, Murang’a Seal, and APS Bomet occupy the bottom three positions and will all be aiming to change their fortunes.

    Gor Mahia vs Ulinzi Stars

    High-flying Gor Mahia welcome a struggling Ulinzi Stars side to the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, from 4pm.

    K’Ogalo head into the match in fine form, having recorded four consecutive league wins and four clean sheets in the process. The 21-time league champions have conceded only once this season — a penalty in their opening-day defeat to Bidco United.

    Under coach Charles Akonnor, Gor Mahia will be counting on their solid defence to stop Ulinzi, while their potent attack seeks to maintain its scoring touch.

    Ulinzi, on the other hand, face an uphill task to end their five-match winless run, which includes three straight losses. Interim coach Stephen Ocholla will be looking for his first point or win after losing his first game in charge to Bidco United.

    However, Ulinzi’s record against Gor Mahia offers little comfort, having won just two of their last 25 meetings. Their most recent victory came nine matches ago, a 1–0 win in 2021.

    AFC Leopards vs Mathare United

    At Nyayo National Stadium AFC Leopards will host Mathare United from 3pm.

    After failing to win any of their first three matches, Leopards have bounced back with two consecutive victories over KCB and Shabana to rise to fifth on the table while maintaining their unbeaten run.

    Coach Fred Ambaniwill be hoping to make it three wins in a row at the expense of Mathare United, who will also be chasing their third win as they look to recover from their midweek loss to Gor Mahia.

    Last season, Ingwe completed a double over the Slum Boys and have won seven of their last ten meetings.

    Kakamega Homeboyz vs Tusker FC

    League leaders Kakamega Homeboyz will be out to strengthen their grip at the top when they face Tusker FC at the Bukhungu Stadium from 2pm.

    Homeboyz climbed to the summit after a 2–1 victory over APS Bomet in midweek, coupled with Posta Rangers dropping points against Murang’a Seal.

    The Mozzart Bet-sponsored side will now be targeting a fourth straight victory as they continue their pursuit of a maiden league title.

    Tusker, meanwhile, appear to have found their rhythm, winning their last two matches after going winless in their opening three fixtures.

    Kenya Police FC vs Posta Rangers

    Defending champions Kenya Police FC return to domestic action after bowing out of the CAF Champions League at the preliminary stage, a result that led to the sacking of coach Etienne Ndayiragije.

    The law enforcers will now turn their focus to defending their league title, beginning with a clash against Posta Rangers at the Police Sacco Stadium from 3pm.

    Posta started the season brightly and topped the table after three rounds but have failed to win their last two matches. The Mailmen will be wary, having managed just one win in their eight previous meetings with Police.

    Police are set to appoint Serbian tactician Dusan Stojanovic as the new team head coach as reported by Mozzartsport.

    Bidco United vs APS Bomet

    In Thika, Bidco United will host APS Bomet at the Kasarani Annex from 2pm. as they look to extend their impressive start to the season.

    The Thika-based side has won three and lost just one of their five league matches so far, placing them fourth on the log. League newcomers APS Bomet, on the other hand, have struggled, winning only one of their five matches in their debut top-flight campaign.

    Murang’a Seal vs KCB FC

    At St. Sebastian Park, Murang’a Seal will host KCB FC in a crucial clash from 3pm.

    Seal have endured a difficult start to the season and currently sit second from bottom. Reports suggest that coach Osborne Monday could be shown the door if his team fails to win.

    KCB, meanwhile, will be seeking to bounce back after suffering consecutive defeats to Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.

  • FKFPL Preview: Shabana seek redemption as Nairobi United return to league action

    FKFPL Preview: Shabana seek redemption as Nairobi United return to league action

    The FKF Premier League 2025/26 season continues this weekend with three matches lined up for today, Saturday 1 November across different venues.

    Ahead of the matches, Kakamega Homeboyz are at the summit of the league with 13 points, a point more than second-placed Gor Mahia, and two more than Posta Rangers.

    On the other end of the table, APS Bomet are still rooted at the bottom of the 18-team log having secured only three points, a point shy of Murang’a Seal and Kenya Police FC, with the latter having played just two league matches.

    Kariobangi Sharks vs Shabana

    The biggest highlight of the day will be the match between wounded Shabana FC and struggling Kariobangi Sharks at the Moi International Sports Center Kasarani at 4pm.

    Shabana head into the match on the back of a four-match winless streak, including three consecutive home losses, that has put the Peter Okidi-led technical bench under fire.

    Okidi will be out to try his luck away from home and save his job which is now under threat, Sharks, on the other hand, have won just one of their five matches this season, and will be out to take advantage of Shabana’s form to register just their second win.

    Nairobi United vs Sofapaka

    Fresh from their qualification to the group stages of the CAF Confederation Cup, Nairobi United return to local league action with a match against limping Sofapaka at Dandora Stadium at 3pm.

    Naibois eliminated Tunisian outfit Etoile du Sportive Sahel (ESS) to reach the group stage, and will be hoping to continue with their continental form when they face Sofapaka.

    Batoto Ba Mungu seem to be suffering from the exit of key players before the start of the season, and have collected five points from five games. The 2009 league champions will be keen to right their wrongs by claiming victory over the FKFPL newbies.

    In the domestic league, Nairobi United sit ninth on the table, having played three matches winning two and losing one.

    Mara Sugar vs Bandari

    In the other match of the day, Mara Sugar welcomes Bandari FC at the Awendo Green Stadium from 1pm.

    The two teams have registered identical results from their five league matches so far. Both have won just one match.

    The Sugar Millers will be out to maximize their home advantage to secure victory, while The Dockers will be keen to reap a win that would account for their long trip to Awendo.

    Mara sits 11th on the table with six points from five matches, having won one, drawn three, and lost one while Bandari are just a point behind in 12th place with five points from four games.

    The Dockers are yet to lose away from home this season, drawing all three of their away fixtures.

  • Elche coach Sarabia out to prove his old club wrong

    Elche coach Sarabia out to prove his old club wrong

    After two years outside Spain’s top flight, Elche sealed their automatic return to La Liga with a thumping 4-0 win at Deportivo in June.

    As the third largest city in the Comunidad Valenciana and the 20th largest in the whole of Spain, Elche could hardly be classified as one of those clubs pundits like to describe as “punching above their weight”.

    That did not stop most pundits from granting them the dubious distinction of being – along with Real Oviedo – favourites to drop straight back into the second tier.

    So far – so wrong. With more than a quarter of the season played, Eder Sarabia’s side go into Sunday’s game at Barcelona eighth in La Liga after 10 games – with three wins, five draws and just two defeats.

    It will be a poignant occasion for the Bilbao-born coach, who returns to the Catalan club for the first time since an eventful seven-and-a-half month stint as assistant to Quique Setien in 2020.

    I met with Sarabia to talk about his indifferent playing career, his famous father and his return to La Liga.

    What do we know about Eder Sarabia?

    They say the apple never falls far from the tree, although in the case of Eder Sarabia the skills he inherited were different to those possessed by his father Manu.

    Manu is a legend at his beloved Athletic Club after winning back to-back titles between 1982 and 1984, including a league and cup double in 1983-84.

    Eder never came close to matching his father’s footballing prowess a player and did not play any higher than the third division – although not for a lack of trying.

    “I thought I was going to be a footballer, but it didn’t work out,” he says. “I ended up as an amateur – I started coaching and felt fulfilled from the start. I’ve kept going in that direction and I’m very happy.

    “My parents were afraid that not fulfilling that dream would traumatise me, but they were relieved to see that coaching suited me.”

    However, it was not all plain sailing when it became clear he was not going to reach the playing heights achieved by his father.

    For that he has his mother to thank – who persuaded him to study engineering when perhaps a course in physical education might have seemed more logical.

    “We lacked for nothing but when I wanted to buy a car I had to work hard before I could buy it,” he says.

    “When I wanted to do a master’s degree after I finished engineering my parents told me to get a job.”

    It led to him working in a Bilbao supermarket, first as a shelf stacker and then in charge of the fruit counter.

    Looking back on those times, he says: “It’s all about valuing things, knowing what they really cost, and learning from what happens to you in life.”

    How did he get to Elche?

    Sarabia brought the curtain down on his playing career aged just 24, knowing deep down he could not reach the heights he had hoped to.

    Instead, he began to teach youngsters at Cruces, before heading to the youth section of Danok Bat – one of the Basque country’s main feeder clubs that helps develop players for the region’s senior sides.

    In 2011, Sarabia moved to Villarreal, and after stints with various youth sides, he was named as manager of their C team in October 2013.

    Crucial to his development was his meeting with Setien – the man he would spend the next five years working with and who had played alongside Sarabia senior at Logrones.

    The effect Setien had on the younger Sarabia was profound.

    “My father and Quique were my two footballing fathers,” he tells me.

    “I met Quique when I was eight years old and he was probably my father’s best friend in football, so we were close for a long time.”

    While at Villarreal he was in contact with Setien – who was coach at Lugo – making suggestions about how he could improve things.

    Setien, in turn, had seen Sarabia’s Villarreal youth team play, liked what he saw and promised him a job whenever he left the Galician club.

    True to his word, as Setien joined Las Palmas in October 2015 one of his first calls was to the then 34-year-old Sarabia, offering him the role of assistant.

    When Setien received a call from Real Betis 17 months later – and again from Barcelona in January 2020 – Sarabia followed him on both occasions.

    A ‘learning curve’ at Barca

    It was at a Lionel Messi-led Barcelona where Sarabia discovered in no uncertain terms what it would feel like to be outside of his comfort zone.

    Cited by the media as the main reason for a rift between the dressing room and the coaching staff at the club, highlighted during a match against Celta Vigo when Messi was seen to openly ignore him, he would later admit to an argument between squad and staff after the game.

    These days however he has only positive things to say about his time with the Blaugrana – and Messi in particular.

    He says of the Argentine genius: “Leo isn’t just the best of all time – he’s probably the one who understands [football] best of all time. He understood things incredibly well.

    “He’s a great winner. He’d get angry if you whistled something against his team in training or if they lost, and we had our ups and downs.

    “But he wanted to be better and for the team to be better, for the common good and because he wanted to keep winning. He had the dream of winning another Champions League.”

    Setien was sacked seven months after his arrival, and although Sarabia’s time at Barca was short, he looks back on it as a “learning curve”.

    ‘I want to leave a legacy’

    After three seasons at Gerard Pique’s FC Andorra, Eder joined second-tier Elche on an initial one-year deal. The club won promotion back to La Liga after a two-year hiatus, earning him a contract extension until June 2027.

    Despite a recent blip that has seen his side lose two and draw one of their past three, Sarabia’s Elche side have shown their innovative, adaptive, attacking style should be more than enough to stay up.

    The tendency of some promoted clubs is to set out defensively in survival mode rather than going for it. But that is not going to happen with Elche.

    If they are to go straight back down – which at the moment seems improbable – they will at least go down swinging, playing their own brand of football, remaining true to Sarabia’s ethos: making fans happy.

    He says: “We have a general idea and a model, but we never play the same way.”

    Fundamental to his ideology is a non-negotiable demand that players should be honest in the way they compete.

    He explains: “In Basque, there’s a word ‘jatorra’. There’s no exact translation, but it’s like being a good person, honest, doing it the right way.

    “Not everything goes as long as you win. That’s a hallmark and something my father instilled in me – football is for clever people, but not for cheats.”

    Sarabia believes football should be about more than just results, wins, or dealings in the transfer market – and focus instead on the wellbeing of a club.

    “I think about the club’s growth in the short and long term,” he says.

    “If I stay for life, great, but if it’s six months or three years I want to leave a legacy so the club continues to grow and improve.”

    Source: BBC Sport

  • Millions await Starlets after beating The Gambia, qualify for WAFCON 2026

    Millions await Starlets after beating The Gambia, qualify for WAFCON 2026

    Harambee Starlets have booked their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup on Nations (WAFCON) after securing a -1 aggregate win against The Gambia. Starlets stunned Gambia 1-0 in the second leg of the qualifying fixture played on Tuesday at Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal, as The Gambia lack a CAF-approved stadium.

    The Beldine Odemba charges built on the momentum of their first -leg success in Nairobi last week where they dominated their opponents with a three one dominant victory.

    Kenya is among 12 nations have booked their places in Morocco after two qualifying rounds. The biennial women’s tournament is scheduled to run from 17 March to 3 April with the hosts Morocco, runners-up at the last two editions, looking to turn fervent home support into silverware.

    The WAFCON will also serve as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with the top four teams earning automatic spots and two more advancing through intercontinental playoffs.

    Nigeria’s Super Falcons have won the WAFCON title in 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018, and are defending champions after their dramatic win over hosts Morocco in the last edition.

    The first half was not highly contested as both team vying to dominate. The decisive moment came  five minutes into the second half when Mwanalima Adam rose high to meet a floated pass from Elizabeth Wambui from midfield into the Gambian penalty box that caused confusion among defenders.

    The win marked a return to the continental showpiece for Starlets since 2016 and having narrowly missed the chance in 2018, 2022 and 2024 editions. In 2016, Kenya qualified on away goals after drawing 3-3 on aggregate with Algeria. In that year Kenya luckily qualified for the second qualifying round after DRC withdrew from the qualifiers in the first round.

    The win sees Harambee Starlets make a second appearance at WAFCON, and the players have earned Ksh1 million each from President William Ruto who had made the pledge if they won the second leg and qualified.

    The Starlets are now guaranteed a minimum of Ksh16 million, the base prize awarded to teams that finish fourth in their group. This amount is part of CAF’s revised financial structure aimed at boosting investment in women’s football across the continent.

    The prize money escalates significantly with each stage of progression. Reaching the quarter-finals would earn the team Ksh25.8 million, while a fourth-place finish overall would bring in Ksh38.7 million. A third-place result would secure Ksh45 million, and the runners-up are set to receive Ksh64.6 million.

    The ultimate prize, winning the tournament, would see Kenya claim Ksh129 million, a figure that could transform the landscape of women’s football in the country.

    These funds are paid directly to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), which is expected to allocate them toward women’s football development. Use of funds is at the discretion of the federation.

  • Gor Mahia, Shabana, and AFC Leopards lead weekend FKF Premier League gate collections

    Gor Mahia, Shabana, and AFC Leopards lead weekend FKF Premier League gate collections

    Seven fixtures over the weekend marked round five of the 2025/26 Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) season. Gor Mahia ended Posta Rangers’ unbeaten run, Tusker bagged their first one of the season while Mathare United stunned Shabana FC at their home.

    Record Kenyan champions K’Ogalo at Nyayo Stadium thrashed Posta three nil with goals coming from Austin Odhiambo, Felix Oluoch and Ben Stanley Omondi- all coming in the second half. Gor moved to third on the table just one point adript joint league leaders Kakamega Homeboyz and Posta.

    At Gusii Stadium, Shabana FC fell to a disappointing 0-1 defeat against Mathare. Their former player, Dennis Okoth, punished his old club with a rare first-half goal. This loss marks their second consecutive defeat at home, having also fallen 1-2 to Posta Rangers at the same venue. This extends their winless streak to three matches, following an earlier 1-1 draw with Tusker FC.

    Elsewhere, AFC Leopards, Tusker and APS Bomet secured their first win of the season. Leopards, the 12-time-champions beat KCB 2-1 at the Ulinzi Sports Complex. Boniface Munyendo gave Leopards the lead just 60 seconds into the match. KCB’s Francis capitalized on defensive lapses to level the score, but Christopher Koloti managed to restore Ingwe’s lead and secure the win.

    League newcomers APS Bomet came from a goal down to secure a historic first league win, beating Kariobangi Sharks 2-1 at Kasarani Annex on Saturday. Tusker finally managed to secure their first three points of the league, having gone four matches without a win. The Charles Okere-led side visited Murang’a SEAL at the SportPesa Arena on Sunday and narrowly escaped with a 1-0 victory.

    While the drama unfolded on the pitch, another battle played out off it — at the entrance. Attendance numbers, ticket sales, and gate collections across various venues provided a revealing snapshot of each club’s pulling power and fan engagement.

    From the packed stands at Gusii Stadium to the lively crowd at Nyayo, clubs raked in significant amounts from ticket sales, with some posting impressive figures despite mixed results.

    Shabana fondly known as Tore Bobe despite their 1-0 loss to Mathare will find some consolation after raking in Ksh 1,197,000 from ticket sales. Tore Bobe faithfuls once again painted the Gusii stands red and white, creating a lively and passionate atmosphere, and highlighting the continued support for the team despite the disappointing result. Tickets for the fixture were priced at VVIP KSh 1,000, VIP KSh 500, and regular KSh 200.

    The club took Twitter(now X) to thank supporters, stating:“We collected a gross revenue of 1,197,000/=. Not the result your support deserved, we promise to bounce back. It was great seeing the Stadium painted red and white 🔴⚪”

    Gor Mahia, the 21-times Kenyan champions, walked home hundreds of thousands richer after their match against Posta. On top of the 3-0 win the club pocketed Kshs 902,900 from the sale of matchday tickets.

    Club treasurer Gerphas Okuku, confirmed the figure while assuring fans that efforts are underway to improve match day operations.

    “Kshs 902,900 was collected from ticket sales in our match against Posta Rangers. We thank our fans and encourage all to buy tickets to support the club. We promise to improve on the teething problems as we progress,” Okuku said in a statement.

    However, the figure reflected a decline of Kshs 82,800 from their previous home fixture against Bidco United, where Gor collected Kshs 985,700. It also marked the latest instance in which the 21-time league champions failed to surpass the one million mark since embracing digital ticketing, a milestone last achieved on 2 June, during the Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards in Homabay, where they banked an impressive Kshs 2,152,750.

    Elsewhere at Ulinzi Sports Complex, AFC Leopards fondly known as Ingwe  collected Ksh421,000 from ticket sales during their 2-1 victory over KCB FC in a Kenyan Premier League match played on Saturday.

    Over in Tunisia, on top of making history as the first Kenyan team to qualify for the CAF Confederations Cup group stage since Gor Mahia in 2018 and the first to do it in their debut season, Nairobi United have earned a total of Ksh58.1 million as part of CAF prize money, with Ksh6.4 million for qualifying for the preliminary round and an additional Ksh51.7 million for reaching the group stage.

    The Nicholas Muyoti-led side edged out Tunisia’s Etoile du Sahel 7–6 in Sousse on penalties on Sunday evening after a 2–2 aggregate draw over the two legs. The Naibois had won the first league in Nairobi 2-0 but the Tunisians drew the tie winning 2-0 in regulation time sending the match into penalties. Goalkeeper Kevin Oduor saved two decisive spot kicks leading the club to the historic feat.

    The money provides Nairobi United with a chance to invest in player development, infrastructure, and club operations, giving them the resources to compete at a higher level. Their group stage journey will pit them against African powerhouses like Zamalek SC, Al Masry, Kaizer Chiefs  and Stade Malien, offering both prestige and exposure.

    It has been a remarkable four months for the Kenyan Premier League side. The team earned promotion to the FKF Premier League after winning the National Super League, went ahead to win the FKF Cup by defeating Gor Mahia in the final to book a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup.

     

  • Benni McCarthy: How he has ‘transformed’ Harambee Stars

    Benni McCarthy: How he has ‘transformed’ Harambee Stars

    When Benni McCarthy was unveiled by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) on 3 March 2025, optimism swept across the Kenyan football fraternity.

    In his first press conference after signing a two-year deal, the former South African international vowed to take Harambee Stars to new heights.

    The former Manchester United forwards coach said he had studied the talent in the country and he believed there’s “immense potential to compete at the highest level.”

    Now seven months and 12 days (to be specific) later, many Kenyans may say McCarthy was a gift from the gods. McCarthy who won the prestigious UEFA Champions league with Porto in 2004 under the ‘special one’ Jose Mourinho has guided Stars in 13 matches winning six, drawing three and losing four.

    But it was the impressive performance at the 2024 Africa Nations Championships (CHAN) held in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania in August that has earned McCarthy more praise and love from both the fans and the players. Kenya topped Group ‘A’ dubbed the ‘group of death’.

    Kenya stunned Morocco and the DRC 1-0 before drawing 1-1 with Angola. Notably, Kenya had to play against African eventual champions, Morocco, with 10 men after Marvin Nabwire was sent off while Chrispine Erambo was also red-carded against Angola.

    Kenya finished the group stage on 10 points one ahead of Morocco and booked her spot in the quarters against Madagascar where she lost 3-4 on penalties after the game ended 1-1 in regular time.

    In the seven months he has been in charge, the former Cape Town City and Amazulu FC coach has rebuilT Kenya’s footballing identity around discipline, structure, and attacking flair. Stars have shown flashes of potential — but also reminders that rebuilding takes time.

    Beyond his tactical acumen, McCarthy has shown that he is not afraid to take risks by making strings of changes in his squad also showing the he also has no favorites.

    In his own words ‘I select players based on merit.’ “If you want to start the match, impress me in training sessions and during games,” said McCarthy ahead of the encounter against Angola in August.

    In the dressing room he is considered a father figure with defender Dennis Sakari calling him ‘Baba’ (Dad). “We work and play for him. We know what he has achieved both as a coach and a player, so we trust what he says,” added Sakari.

    Beyond tactics, McCarthy’s arrival has injected a winning mentality and professional discipline.
    Training sessions are reportedly more intense, with clear structures and tactical drills. Players often speak of McCarthy’s direct communication and emphasis on accountability.

    There’s also renewed team spirit. Whether in victory or defeat, the squad projects unity — a stark contrast to previous years when internal divisions often spilled into the public eye.

    Despite the thrilling performances at the CHAN, in World Cup qualifiers, Kenya’s results have been mixed. Wins against Burundi and Seychelles offered optimism, but a humbling defeats against Gambia and Cote D’Ivoire everyone how far the Stars still have to climb.

    The standout player under McCarthy has been Ryan Wesley Ogam. The Wolfsberger AC striker was handed the national call up during the CHAN and he was so impressed with the call even when he was still not fit to play due to a knee injury that had sidelined him for three months.

    The former Tusker forward has  revealed that every national team camp presents an opportunity to improve his game and grow as a professional.

    “It is a huge pleasure to don the national team colors. The jersey comes with its own weight of responsibility as we represent millions of Kenyans, so to me it is a great honour, and I am committed to giving my best every time I get the opportunity,”  said Ogam who has netted six times in eight appearances.

    McCarthy’s biggest contribution so far has been introducing a clear tactical identity. Kenya now lines up primarily in a 4-3-3, occasionally switching to a 4-2-3-1 when protecting a lead.

    The new system emphasizes:

    • Vertical transitions: Quick breaks from defense to attack

    • Pressing: A higher defensive line and coordinated press, particularly in midfield

    • Structured buildup: Encouraging defenders to play out from the back, the modern day football

    McCarthy has strongly criticized former coach Engin Firat and other sceptics who had claimed that Kenya lacks football talent, insisting that such opinions overlook the potential and skill present in the country’s players. Firat had said that Kenya is a country where people knew little about football and, as a result, did not show enough respect for the sport.

    “Kenya is a country where they don’t know anything about football, so in that sense, they don’t respect it enough. We won against the Asian Championships in Qatar and no one cared,” Firat said, at the time.

    However, Benni holds a very different view regarding football talent in Kenya, noting that Firat and others who doubted the country’s potential had underestimated the work involved. The Harambee Stars coach emphasized that he believes in giving players the freedom to make decisions on the pitch rather than micromanaging every action.

    He explained that while he provides instructions and guidance, he does not feel the need to monitor every single move, allowing players to take ownership of their game.

    “Whoever said that there was no talent was either smoking on something or they just didn’t do their job accordingly, because Kenya is full of talent,”  McCarthy said in an interview shared by KBC journalist Caren Kibet on Instagram.

    The South African top goal scorer has given the players the freedom to think for themselves, ” I do not to be micromanage players, telling them exactly what to do, how to do and when to do it.

    “So, you give them the instructions, you guide them, and you let them go out and be players and search and find ways to be better from what you explained.”

    Kenya ended its 2026 World Cup Qualifier campaign with a humbling 3-0 defeat in the hands of Cote D’Ivoire in Abidjan yesternight.

    McCarthy’s men hardly had a foothold into the game and were lacking in all areas against a star-studded Ivory Coast team that should have won by a bigger margin had they taken most of their chances.

    The Harambee Stars boss accepts that there was little his team would have done when playing such a top-quality team.

    “The objective was to go out there and try and complicate for Ivory Coast national team because we are a professional team, we do not want to come here to lose the match but you have to give credit where it is due,” McCarthy said after the match.

    With Kenya out of World Cup talks, McCarthy and his men will regroup and embark on a strategy aimed at an impressive performance at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

  • World Cup Qualifiers: Stars face Burundi, Cote D’Ivoire as Olunga chases topscorer record

    World Cup Qualifiers: Stars face Burundi, Cote D’Ivoire as Olunga chases topscorer record

    With nothing left to play for but pride, Burundi and Kenya will face off at Intwari Stadium, Burundi on Thursday in matchday nine of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

    Both teams are already out of the running for a place at the finals, with the hosts sitting fourth on 10 points from three wins, a draw and four losses while the visitors, in fifth from two wins, and three draws and losses apiece.

    Harambee Stars contingent flied out of the country for Bujumbura on Tuesday to face the Swallows before heading to Abidjan for a date with Cote D’Ivoire’s Elephants on Tuesday next week. The Elephants to Group ‘F’ on 20 points from eight matches and have to beat Stars to automatically qualify for the quadrennial showpiece to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States. Gabon follow closely on 19 points.

    Stars head coach Benny McCarthy called 24 players for the two matches and this international break offers a rare but crucial opportunity to young footballers to prove themselves. One such who has earned a call-up is Lawrence Okoth who is attached to Finnish side SJK Seinajoki.

    Okoth is a product of the Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) and made history earlier this year as the first Kenyan to score at the u-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, where he netted a memorable header against Morocco and added a second to his name in the tournament.

    McCarthy says he waited for the perfect moment to call him up as the upcoming matches do not have much pressure which allows the young player to be eased into the team: “Now that we are out of qualifying range, I can give opportunities to young players. I hope Okoth appreciates this opportunity and grab it with both hands.”

    The South African talisman added that the 19-year-old forward could have earned an early call-up were it no for “the available experienced Jonah Ayunga and Masoud Juma.”

    McCarthy is aware injuries are bound to happen and says this provides an opportunity for the rookies to prove themselves.

    “I saw him play in the AFCON u-20, and this is an opportunity to rope in young players and give them a taste of international football. “When he gets it in one of the matches, then he must take it with both hands because 2027 is around the corner and we are building for AFCON,” added McCarthy who took over the reigns of Stars in March 2025.

    Stars captain Michael Olunga said Okoth’s call-up is a deserved one: “It shows he has been putting in the hardwork and the coach who is a fair person has been watching him.”

    Olunga who is on the cusp of becoming Kenya’s all-time top scorer says the top spot is not an immediate priority, but rather a dream he hopes to fulfill in the near future.

    The 31-year-old is just two goals away from becoming the men’s national team’s leading scorer. He currently sits in second place, tied with Dennis Oliech on 34 goals, and is just one goal behind the all-time record of 35 goals held by William Ouma. This follows the Al Arabi striker’s brace in the September 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Seychelles, when Kenya secured a commanding 5-0 victory.

    As the team heads into their final Group F matches – dead rubbers against Burundi and Ivory Coast, Olunga has a chance to claim the record. If he scores at least two goals this October, he will make history. However, he has stated that this milestone is not his primary focus, emphasizing that his main goal is to lead the team in every way he can.

    “Honestly, that is not something I’m thinking about. The most important thing right now is to work hard and try to help the team as much as possible, whether by scoring, defending, or being there to lead the other players,” said the Al-Arabi SC forward.

    Although Harambee Stars have already fallen out of contention for next year’s finals, yet McCarthy has made it clear that his players will not be mere participants in the closing rounds issuing a pointed reminder to the Cote d’Ivoire that football, for all its logic and paper predictions, is ultimately decided on grass and grit.

    “We know what is at stake,” McCarthy said after a training session in Nairobi.

     

    “We are going into the lion’s den because for Cote d’Ivoire, a win will secure automatic qualification — but we’re not here to do favors for anyone. We’re going there to win and take three points.”

    The 47-year-old former Blackburn Rovers striker has brought to the Harambee Stars a mixture of fire and method. Though his tenure has been too brief to yield consistent results, the team’s growing tactical maturity has been noted. He insists that Kenya’s matches against Burundi and Cote d’Ivoire offer a chance to show how far the team has come.

    “Football isn’t played on paper; it’s played on the pitch,” he said.

    “We’ll play the best football we can, and hopefully, we win. They’ll come with the same mindset, but that’s what competition is about.”

    One of the key talking points of McCarthy’s latest squad is the return of Gor Mahia captain Austin Odhiambo, whose absence from the last round of qualifiers had sparked fierce debate among fans and pundits alike. Odhiambo was left out of the squad that faced The Gambia and Seychelles in September — matches that produced a 3-1 loss and a 5-0 win, respectively.

    His exclusion was widely questioned, especially after his standout performances at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), where Kenya reached the knockout stages and Odhiambo scored twice.

    But McCarthy insists the midfielder’s return is richly earned. “I’m happy for his comeback because he clearly got the message,” he said.

    “He’s worked hard, played every match for his club, earned the captaincy, and shown leadership. No player is bigger than the team — if you don’t meet my standards, you’re out, no matter how talented you are.”

    Since his omission, Odhiambo has led K’Ogalo to successive league victories, anchoring midfield with composure and authority.

    His reinstatement feels not only symbolic but strategic — an acknowledgement that discipline and performance now outweigh reputation. Beyond the qualifiers, McCarthy has also turned his attention to the domestic game.

    The South African coach believes the FKF Premier League has grown in quality and competitiveness since his appointment, crediting increased visibility and accountability among players.

    “It’s important for players to know the national team coach is watching,” he said. “When I or my staff attend matches, it lifts the standards. Everyone wants to show something special, something that might catch our eye.”

    Since taking charge, McCarthy has made regular appearances at FKF Premier League games, often alongside his assistants.

    Several locally based players have earned national call-ups as a result, helping bridge the long-standing divide between domestic and foreign-based talent. He believes this engagement has a ripple effect: “When players see that the coach values the local league, the intensity rises,” he said. “It improves the competition, and that benefits everyone.”

  • FKFPL Review: Shabana sit top of summit, Gor gaining momentum as Tusker struggles continue

    FKFPL Review: Shabana sit top of summit, Gor gaining momentum as Tusker struggles continue

    Bidco United’s one nil victory over newly promoted Nairobi United on Monday concluded the fourth round of the 2025/26 SportPesa Premier League season. Herman Ngala’s second minute goal lifted the Oilers to third on the log table with six points from two matches as their opponent sit 13th on three points after a solitary win and a loss. Bidco are among the six teams yet to lose this season, others being Shabana, Posta Rangers, Kakamega Homeboyz, Police Fc and AFC Leopards; although the fixtures are irregular.

    Don’t sleep on Shabana this season

    Shabana FC will sit at the summit of the 2025/2026 Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) table heading to the October FIFA international break after battling to a 1-1 draw with Tusker in a league match played at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday, October 5.

    Harambee Stars forward Austin Odongo gave Shabana the lead in the 19th minute before substitute Ian Simiyu levelled for Tusker with 10 minutes left on the clock.

    The draw keeps Shabana level on points with Posta Rangers, as both teams have seven, but Shabana remain top on goal difference, having scored six goals and conceded three compared to Rangers who have let in four times.

    The Glamour Boys have had a stellar start to the 2025/26 campaign after thrashing newbies APS Bomet 4-2 in the league opener before seeing off Bandari 1-0 on matchday two.

    Everything seem to go perfect for Tore Bobe in their pursuit for their maiden league title. The only set-back being an injury to their main man Brain Michira who the coach said his early exit to the game against Tusker ‘disrupted the gameplan’.

    “The medical team had deemed him 100 per cent fit, so when he got injured, it was a big blow because the team is built around him. We had to change the game plan,” said coach Okidi.

    Michira was Shabana’s top scorer last season with 14 goals and has bagged two this season.

    Shabana had a great second half of the last season picking eight wins and five draws in the last 17 games and they seem to have brought last season’s momentum into this season.

    Never rule out Gor Mahia

    After two wins and a loss from three matches, record champions Gor Mahia now sit third on the table on six points level with Posta.

    K’Ogalo rarely kicks off a new season with good results but seem to pick form as the league grows but this season things seem to be different. Despite kicking off the season on a back foot with a 1-0 loss to Bidco on the opening fixture, Gor bounced back with wins against Sofapaka (2-0) and KCB (1-0).

    Despite two consecutive wins, coach Charles Akonnor is still ‘unimpressed’ with the number of chances his charges are missing saying ‘such fine margins can be costly on some occasions’.

    “Today was better, we played a little bit quicker, we controlled the game, created chances but we could not score and it is still the area we need to improve,” said the Ghanaian who took charge at the beginning of the season.
    “It is good that he -Felix Oluoch- scored. In the last match that we played, he was short of gas, a little bit tired. Do not forget he was not with us in pre-season so he struggled a little bit but we were very happy that he scored.”

    Police and Tusker seem less fiery

    The defending champions, Kenya Police FC have had a mixed start to the season with one win- against APS Bomet over the weekend, and a draw against rivals Ulinzi Stars. Their title defence will be hampered by fixture congestion as they will also be representing Kenya in the CAF Champions League.

    Police FC will host Sudanese powerhouse, Al Hilal Omdurman on 17 October, at Nyayo National Stadium for their much-anticipated CAF Champions League Cup second preliminary round.

    The Law-enforcers advanced to this stage after surviving a late scare from Mogadishu City Club of Somalia, edging them out on away goals following a tense two-legged affair.

    The reigning FKF-PL champions had registered an emphatic 3-1 victory in the first leg played in Nyayo National Stadium, where Eric Zakayo, Edward Omondi and David Simiyu scored, but were forced to sweat in the return leg staged still at Nyayo, falling 2-0 away before eventually progressing on aggregate.

    Al Hilal Omdurman on the other hand, equally endured a competitive first-round tie, overcoming Jamus FC of South Sudan with a 2-1 aggregate score line.

    The Sudanese powerhouse, a seasoned continental campaigner, will be looking to extend their impressive CAF pedigree, having consistently featured in both the Champions League and Confederation Cup in recent years.

    The clash marks the first-ever meeting between the two sides, with the winner of the two-legged tie securing a coveted slot in the group stages of Africa’s top-tier inter-club competition, where the Etienne Ndayiragije coached-side will be aiming to make history as the first Kenyan side to grace the group stages.

    Tusker FC on the other hand are having their worst start to the season after two draws and two losses from their opening four rounds. Losses against KCB and Posta Rangers, and draws against Mathare and Shabana have left the Brewers sitting 16th on the table with two points and a negative three goal difference.

    But despite the poor start head coach Charles Okere has refused to press the panic button. According to Okere, who has been under pressure following the poor start, Tusker fans should remain patient as he tries to revive the sinking ship.

    “We went into the game wanting three points, but getting a point is also a good result considering we are in the early stages of the season, and for the fans we ask for patience, everything will be alright, we are going through a bad spell but it won’t take long,” said Okere.

    “We have started to get the playing formula right, and I want to assure the fans the moment everything clicks, we will go far, we are in the race, and we will fight until the end.”

    Things not going so well for veterans and the newbies

    Joining Tusker in the conversations of poor starts are Murang’a Seal, AFC Leopards and Sofapaka. Murang’a are 14th in the table after one win from three just ahead of Leopards who have accumulated just two points from two draws. Sofapaka are 17 after one draw and two losses from their opening three matches.

    On the other hand, newly promoted APS Bomet sit bottom of the table with zero points after three consecutive defeats and a negative five goal difference.

  • Future of women football in Kenya explained

    Future of women football in Kenya explained

    As the dust settles on the just-concluded CHAN tournament, where Morocco lifted the trophy in one of Africa’s most fiercely contested competitions, a haunting question lingers: When will women’s football ever command such a spotlight?

    This year’s edition made history, bringing together 19 national teams in the group stages, the largest number of participants in CHAN history.

    Hosted across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, the 8th edition was not just a tournament; it was a continental celebration of football at its finest.

    The fully packed stadiums, electrifying atmosphere, adrenaline-filled stands, wall-to-wall media coverage, and branding frenzy painted a vivid picture of what football means to Africa when it is given the investment it deserves.

    Even FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s presence underscored the weight and value placed on men’s football. But behind this glittering spectacle lies a sobering truth: women’s football in Africa continues to be treated as an afterthought. While men bask in glory, women remain sidelined, their talent dimmed by a lack of investment, attention, and respect.

    Harambee Stars vs. the Starlets

    The exposure that Kenya’s Harambee Stars gained from CHAN, even after bowing out in the quarterfinals, was immense.

    For the players, the experience came with rewards, recognition, and renewed motivation to push the legacy of their country forward.

    But where does this leave the Harambee Starlets? Unlike their male counterparts, Kenya’s women’s team rarely enjoys such visibility.

    Women’s matches, whether in international tournaments or the local Kenya Women’s Premier League, attract sparse attendance, receive minimal media coverage, and almost no branding.

    The result is a vicious cycle: the less women’s football is seen, the less it is valued, and the slower it grows. In the end, talent is suffocated, dreams are dimmed, and women’s football remains quietly overshadowed by the men’s game.

    History forgotten too soon

    Women’s football in Kenya is not a story of failure. In fact, it has delivered some of the country’s biggest sporting milestones in recent history.

    Currently, we have a women’s team playing in the Oslo Homeless World Cup, where the Kenyan side has stormed into the semi-final after thrashing Wales 8-1.

    Kenyan Harambee Starlets team representing Kenya in the Oslo Homeless World Cup.

    In their group stage matches, Kenya registered remarkable results, outshining their opponents and surpassing the performance of any other Kenyan team, male or female, in similar global events.

    And who can forget 2024, when the U-17 Junior Starlets etched their names in history by becoming the first Kenyan football team, male or female, to qualify for a FIFA World Cup?

    They carried the nation’s flag to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and, on October 18, played their first-ever match against England.

    These are moments of pride, breakthroughs that should have transformed the trajectory of women’s football in Kenya. The women’s teams have already proven their capability on the global stage. Yet, even with such milestones, the reality remains bleak as women’s football continues to be grossly underfunded.

    The Starlets’ achievement was celebrated in headlines for a brief moment, but the investment, sponsorship, and structural support needed to sustain such success have yet to follow.

    The question then is not whether women can perform at the highest level they already have, but whether the nation and the continent are willing to back them with the resources they deserve.

    Voices from the game

    According to football commentator Luqman Mahmoud, gender inequality in sports remains one of the biggest setbacks for Kenyan women athletes, stunting their growth and potential.

    “The Federation should treat women’s football as equal to men’s. To date, Harambee Starlets are still demanding their May bonuses from WAFCON qualifiers, while their male counterparts, Harambee Stars, received their allowances even before playing in the CHAN tournament,” he says.

    Luqman also emphasises the need for aggressive promotion of women’s football:

    “The Federation should invest in popularising the women’s game. This will allow players to showcase their talent and attract a global audience. If the private sector collaborates with the Federation to heavily invest and promote women’s sports, more corporations will follow suit and support women’s football,” he adds.

    Beryl Oyoo, a sports journalist, echoes these sentiments, pointing to the lack of infrastructure and resources as a key factor depopularizing the women’s game:

    “We have talented girls at the grassroots level, but they lack proper fields, training gear, and the right exposure to help them shine on global stages. High school games are filled with extremely gifted young girls whose dreams are shattered because of the lack of support and better facilities for women’s football,” Oyoo explains.

     “If fans can turn out in their thousands to support the Harambee Starlets during upcoming CECAFA games, it will help attract TV coverage and keep the women motivated to push the legacy started by the U-17 Starlets.”

    The voices from the stands and the pitch make it clear: fans are ready to embrace women’s football, if only it is given the same platform and support as men’s tournaments.

    CHAN has shown us what is possible when resources, planning, and passion converge. Now, imagine that same energy fueling women’s leagues, grassroots development programs, and continental championships.

    We have countless girls waiting on dusty pitches, barefoot but with dreams bigger than their circumstances. They do not need sympathy. They need systems that believe in them and structures that support them.

    We have witnessed how CHAN has positively influenced men’s football. Now, women need the same investment, the same passion, and the same belief. Because when women win, the game wins, and so does the nation.

     

    Story First Published by: IVAN LUCY [storyspotlight.co.ke].

  • Battle for Kakamega football supremacy is on

    Battle for Kakamega football supremacy is on

    Preparations are in top gear for the FKF Kakamega Branch Mini League, scheduled to take place in mid-September. The competition will feature the top clubs from each of the county’s seven zones, alongside one runner-up team, bringing the total number of participants to eight.

    The teams that have qualified are:

    1. Warriors FC (Zone A)

    2. Red Eagles (Zone B)

    3. Tumaini FC (Zone C)

    4. Tsunami FC (Zone D)

    5. Manwar FC (Zone E)

    6. Eshikufu FC (Zone E)

    7. Matungu Blackstars FC (Zone G)

    8. Chepsai (Zone B²) or Bushiangala T.T.I FC (Zone E²)

    One of the headline contenders will be Matungu Blackstars FC, who were crowned champions of the Pepeta.com Kakamega County Edition Super Cup last weekend. The Zone G winners are now aiming to replicate that success in the Mini League, where they will face stiff competition from other zonal champions.

      Matungu Blackstars FC winners of the just-concluded Pepeta Super Cup Kakamega County edition.

    Tournament organisers have announced lucrative prizes for the teams. The champions will walk away with a trophy, a football, and Ksh. 150,000. The runners-up will receive a trophy, a football, and Ksh. 100,000, while the third-placed team will claim a trophy, a football, and KSh. 50,000. All other participating teams will be awarded a football and KSh. 30,000. In addition, all zonal runners-up will pocket Ksh. 20,000.

    The FKF Kakamega Mini League is expected to provide a platform for showcasing local talent while raising the competitive standards of grassroots football in the county. With teams already in high spirits and supporters eagerly awaiting kick-off, the tournament is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events on the county football calendar.