From Nicholas Muyoti’s decision to resign as City Stars coach to Shabana handing Tusker a second defeat in three outings, there were many talking points from matchweek 17 of the FKFPL.
The FKF Premier League returned with a bang after a three-week festive break, delivering action-packed matches and significant developments as teams looked to set the tone for 2025.
From a thrilling slum derby to Shabana’s impressive rise, here’s a breakdown of the major stories from the first weekend of the year.
Shabana is aiming to capitalise on their consistently high gross revenue collection by implementing an electronic ticketing system to boost gate collection.
The much-anticipated clash between Kariobangi Sharks and Mathare United lived up to its billing as one of the most evenly contested matches this season. With both sides fielding squads brimming with young talent, the vibrancy on the pitch was mirrored by a lively crowd of around 4,000 spectators from Kariobangi and Mathare.
The game, however, lacked a cutting edge. Mathare United squandered several golden opportunities, including a chance in the 67th minute when Meshack Ochieng failed to convert after a brilliant solo run from Sammy Imbuye. Sharks’ Stephen Bwire came close to breaking the deadlock in the 29th minute with a fierce strike, but Mathare goalkeeper Robert Mboya was equal to the task.
Ultimately, the draw seemed fair, leaving both teams firmly in mid-table, with Sharks and Mathare occupying 10th and 11th places respectively.
Tusker suffered yet another blow at the hands of Shabana FC. The Gusii-based outfit, buoyed by their passionate home support, overturned an early deficit to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory at Gusii Stadium.
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Harambee Stars’ failure to make it to the Mapinduzi Cup final will not only see them lose out on a chance to win the trophy but there is also a big cash reward that they missed out on.
Shabana’s dominance over Tusker continues
Tusker’s Charles Momanyi, dubbed “Nyamira one” by Azam TV commentators, silenced the home crowd with an 11th-minute goal, but Shabana’s resilience shone through. Goals from Dennis Okoth and Dalphine Omuri turned the game on its head, sending the fans into raptures.
This result marked Shabana’s second win over Tusker in their last three meetings, underscoring their transformation from last season’s relegation strugglers to genuine title contenders.
With a revamped technical team and financial backing from SportPesa, Shabana now sits just four points off the summit, with KCB leading the pack.
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Boniface Muchiri inspires Mara Sugar
Boniface Muchiri made headlines with his immediate impact for Ulinzi Stars, just days after featuring for Harambee Stars in the Mapinduzi Cup final in Pemba Islands.
Muchiri, who was pivotal for Harambee Stars during the tournament, came off the bench against Mara Sugar and delivered the decisive moment. His expertly taken free-kick found Staphod Odhiambo, who headed home to secure all three points for Ulinzi Stars.
With CHAN 2025 on the horizon, where Kenya will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda, Muchiri’s ability to influence games in crucial moments will be a key asset for the national team.
Nicholas Muyoti steps down as Nairobi City Stars coach
The weekend also saw a managerial shake-up, with Nicholas Muyoti resigning as head coach of Nairobi City Stars following a 2-1 loss to Posta Rangers. This marked the club’s fourth consecutive winless game, leaving them languishing in 15th place on the 18-team table.
Muyoti’s tenure, which spanned nearly three years, included two top-six finishes and the introduction of 24 players to the Premier League. Despite his achievements, recent struggles and mounting frustration with the squad’s performances led to his departure.
“Such departure points are never the best but are sometimes inevitable,” said club CEO Patrick Korir. “We would have loved to keep him, but we respect his decision to pursue other interests.”
