Kenyan Premier League

Social Media

I’ve Made a Decision: And It’s Not What You Expect

To the amazing fans, players, and management of Murang’a SEAL, I just want to say a massive thank you for the warm welcome since I came on board as your digital strategist. This role has been a game-changer for me—being the youngest in the league, stepping into the top flight for the first time, it’s been quite the ride. Transitioning from working with lower league teams to taking on the digital strategy of Murang’a SEAL—a club that’s as fresh and ambitious as I am—has been both a learning curve and a huge privilege. We’ve made some bold moves together, and let’s be real, not all of them have been crowd-pleasers. But I promise you, every decision has been made with the future in mind, with a vision to build something bigger than just the usual game day posts. It’s about creating a vibe, a narrative that speaks to who we are—a team that’s hungry, unafraid, and punching above its weight. In our very first season in the top flight, I’ve felt this electric energy that tells me we’re on the verge of something special. And that’s what makes this journey with Murang’a SEAL so incredibly rewarding. Joining Murang’a SEAL was not just a job; it felt like the perfect match. Both the club and I are young, driven, and eager to make our mark. Established in 2016, Murang’a SEAL is still carving its space in Kenyan football, and being part of that story is truly special. We’re not just showing up; we’re writing our own history—one bold tweet, one creative post, one passionate match at a time. I know there’ll be challenges along the way; no path to success is ever smooth. But I’m here for all of it, ready to navigate the ups and downs with this incredible club. Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the chatter about me moving to Shabana FC. I want to set the record straight—I’m staying at Murang’a SEAL until otherwise. I’m grateful for the interest from Shabana FC; it’s a sign that local football is growing and starting to see the value in the people behind the scenes, not just on the pitch. I appreciate the media attention—it’s nice to be noticed—but after weighing things carefully, both professionally and personally, my heart is with Murang’a SEAL. On another note, I’m excited to share that I’ll also be taking on a similar role with Railway Wanderers FC, a historic club with roots going back to 1922. It’s a fantastic opportunity that aligns perfectly with my journey, and I can’t wait to get started. But my focus, my energy, and my passion remain firmly with Murang’a SEAL. We’ve got history to make, and I’m here for every single moment of it. Here’s to more bold decisions, more wins, and an incredible journey ahead!

September 2, 2024 No Comments

Social Media

Criticizing Murang’a SEAL? Here’s Why You’re Actually Proving Them Right

The debate over what kind of content Kenyan football clubs should share on social media has raged on with fervor. Fans, pundits and even players have thrown their hats into the ring, each with their own opinion on what should be prioritized—be it match reports, player profiles or behind-the-scenes footage. But let’s cut to the chase: the content strategy of a football club’s social media is largely driven by traffic, interactions and engagement. And guess what? Entertainment content reigns supreme. If you’re one of those who think social media should be a somber space reserved for breaking news and serious analysis, you’re missing the point. Social media, at its core, is an entertainment platform. Sure, people search for news, but not as often as you might think. When it comes to football—an inherently entertainment-driven sport—the rules are no different. If anything, they’re magnified. Take Murang’a SEAL, for instance. The club has been both praised and criticized for its unconventional approach to social media. Some have slammed their humorous posts and banter as unprofessional, claiming that it detracts from the club’s seriousness. But let’s not forget that this so-called “noise” kept the club in the mainstream media’s spotlight for at least 12 straight weeks during their top-flight debut season. That’s no mean feat. Why did it work? Because humor is a powerful tool for brand awareness. In today’s world where countless brands—football or otherwise—are vying for attention, being funny, provocative or even controversial can be the difference between being seen and being ignored. The critics of Murang’a SEAL’s social media strategy inadvertently proved that it worked: they noticed, engaged and eventually talked about it. In the marketing world, that’s called achieving your objective. But let’s talk about the broader picture. Kenyan football has struggled with perception. Ask any random Kenyan about local football, and you’ll likely hear words like “boring” thrown around. The harsh truth is that many Kenyans don’t see their league as exciting or worth following. This is where hype becomes not just important, but absolutely necessary. Tanzania’s league, for example, has garnered significant attention, not because their football is inherently better than Kenya’s, but because they’ve mastered the art of marketing. Their clubs have made it a point to inject hype into everything they do, from matchday promotions to player signings. They’ve made football part of their cultural fabric, something to talk about, something to be excited about. And they’ve done it by consistently being loud—using every tool at their disposal, including humor and banter, to stay in the conversation. Kenyan football clubs could learn a thing or two from this. The path to making our league a household topic isn’t by being overly cautious or sticking to bland, “safe” content. It’s by embracing the chaos, the noise, and yes, even the negativity. Negative publicity, after all, is still publicity. If people are talking about you—whether they’re praising or criticizing—it means you’ve captured their attention. And in the crowded space of social media, attention is the most valuable currency. So what should a football club’s social media pages post? A balanced mix of content is essential. Yes, fans want to see inspirational stories, promotional material, and educational content. But they also want to be entertained. They want to laugh, to share a witty post with friends, to feel like they’re part of a community that doesn’t take itself too seriously all the time. Striking that balance is key, but leaning into entertainment is where the real engagement happens. Murang’a SEAL’s off-field success, marked by the buzz they generated online, is a clear example of what happens when you dare to be different. They were bold enough to make noise, and it paid off. The criticism they’ve faced only underscores the fact that they’re on the right track. After all, the opposite of love isn’t hate—it’s indifference. And Murang’a SEAL has proven that they are anything but forgettable. In conclusion, hype is not just a bonus; it’s a necessity for the growth of Kenyan football. Our clubs need to stop playing it safe and start thinking about how to make people talk, laugh, and, most importantly, care. It’s time to recognize that in the digital age, content is king, and entertaining content is the king of kings. So let’s lean into the banter, embrace the humor, and keep the conversation going. Because the moment they stop talking about you is the moment you’ve truly lost.

August 13, 2024 No Comments

Football

New Dawn for Kenyan Football as FKF and KBC Seal Game-Changing Deal.

In a move set to redefine the landscape of Kenyan football, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has inked a groundbreaking deal with the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) that promises to inject new life into the sport at both professional and grassroots levels. The FKF-KBC partnership, announced by FKF President Nick Mwendwa and KBC Managing Director Samuel Maina at a press conference held yesterday, comes with a myriad of benefits aimed at elevating the standards of the FKF Premier League (FKFPL) and fostering growth in women’s football. One of the key highlights of the deal is the allocation of a portion of the financial package to remunerate referees officiating in the National Super League (NSL) and the FKF Women’s Premier League (FKFWPL). This move is expected to not only boost the morale of officials but also enhance the overall quality and fairness of the competitions. A significant boost for the FKFPL comes in the form of a substantial cash prize for the title winner, with a whopping 5 million Kenyan Shillings up for grabs. This substantial reward is anticipated to intensify the competition and raise the stakes for participating teams, ensuring an electrifying race to the championship. Adding glamour to the league, an eagerly awaited #FKFPL gala night will be held at the conclusion of the season. This star-studded event promises to be a celebration of football excellence, recognizing outstanding players, coaches, and contributors who have made a mark during the league campaign. Financial incentives have also been extended to all participating teams, with a total of 11 million Kenyan Shillings set to be distributed according to the final standings. This innovative approach aims to promote competitiveness throughout the league, encouraging teams to strive for excellence and improve their rankings. The collaboration with KBC as the official Free to Air partner is a strategic move to ensure wider accessibility of FKFPL matches to the Kenyan public. KBC Managing Director Samuel Maina expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are glad to announce that KBC is the official FKF Premier League Free to air Partner.” This sentiment was echoed by FKF President Nick Mwendwa, who outlined the financial dimensions of the deal, specifying that the agreement is valued at $750,000 USD for Free to Air and $500,000 USD for radio. Furthermore, the agreement extends to the Kenya Women’s Premier League (KWPL), with plans underway to monetize the women’s league. Sports CS Ababu Namwamba emphasized the commitment to developing a comprehensive package for the KWPL, including a broadcaster. “I have no doubt that Women’s Football is the Next big thing in the country,” stated Namwamba, signaling a positive shift towards recognizing and promoting women’s football on a national scale. In a move to ensure widespread coverage, KBC will also acquire audio rights, allowing FKF Premier League matches to be broadcasted across all their radio stations, including vernacular channels. This not only enhances accessibility but also ensures that football enthusiasts from diverse linguistic backgrounds can enjoy the thrill of live match commentary. As the nation celebrates this historic collaboration between FKF and KBC, football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate a new era marked by increased visibility, financial empowerment for clubs, and a renewed focus on the development of women’s football. The FKF-KBC deal is undeniably a game-changer that has the potential to propel Kenyan football to greater heights, nurturing talent and uniting communities through the beautiful game.

November 30, 2023 No Comments

Football

Azam TV Expands Horizons: A Vibrant Day at Muhoroni Stadium.

In a journey that started a stone’s throw away from the quaint Kensington Hotel, the Murang’a Seal football team embarked on a scenic drive along the Kericho-Kapsuser Highway. The verdant tea plantations of Kericho County gave way to the sugarcane-draped landscapes of Kisumu County, painting a vivid picture of Kenya’s ‘sugar-rich’ heartland. Amidst this agrarian tapestry, sugarcane reigned supreme, making it clear that in Muhoroni, sweetness was the order of the day, with only whispers of the elusive commodity – milk. As the clock struck 2:13pm, the imposing gates of Muhoroni Stadium swung open, inviting players and spectators alike to a thrilling showdown. Eager fans, armed with their trusty smartphones, stood ready to capture every moment, while Azam Sports 3HD beamed the match live across the nation. Dholuo, the local dialect, resounded in the air, punctuated only by the stubborn strains of Swahili, courtesy of the Tanzanian broadcast crew. The warm-up session commenced at 3:17pm, preceded by meticulous player checks and verifications. Memories of past altercations on this hallowed ground lingered like whispers in the wind, yet Muhoroni Youth’s Chairman, Moses Adagala, observed the proceedings from the sidelines, an oasis of calm in the storm. In the stands, it was clear that women held sway, their presence a testament to the unifying power of the sport. Azam’s lenses captured the fervor, zooming wide to encapsulate every nuance of the event. Azam TV’s bold move to venture beyond Nairobi marked a pivotal moment for football enthusiasts nationwide. Muhoroni and Bungoma were the chosen battlegrounds for the inaugural live broadcasts. The clash between Muhoroni Youth and Murang’a Seal set the stage ablaze at Muhoroni Stadium, followed by a showdown at Sudi Stadium in Bungoma between Nzoia Sugar and the AFC Leopards. As the final whistle blew, Dickson Raila’s 15th-minute strike for the hosts echoed in the annals of Muhoroni Stadium, countered swiftly by Murang’a Seal’s Eric Balecho just ten minutes later. The spirited draw secured by Murang’a Seal propelled them to an impressive 14-point tally, a testament to their steadfast defense, having conceded a mere three goals. In the grander scheme, Azam TV’s foray into new territories is a beacon of hope for football fans far and wide. The challenge now lies in the hands of stadium custodians, urging them to elevate these arenas to the standards befitting live broadcasts. The journey to Muhoroni and back was more than a football match; it was a testament to the unifying power of the beautiful game.

October 30, 2023 No Comments

Football

Day 1 Through the Lens: Chronicles of a Club Photographer’s Odyssey.

The afternoon sun cast a tranquil ambiance, yet an electrifying excitement buzzed in the air as I embarked on a journey that would unveil the uncharted territories of my newfound passion. It was a passion kindled by the irrepressible spirit of exploration, leading me to traverse the magnificent landscapes of our beloved Kenya. The catalyst for this adventure was none other than my friend, Collins ‘Aucho’ Okoth, who had introduced me to Cheza Sports in an unexpected twist of fate – a story best reserved for another day. As the clock hand danced its way to 6:07 pm, I found myself nestled within the confines of a Nissan Matatu, a vehicle that would carry me to the enchanting realm of Murang’a. The Nairobi Central Business District receded into the background as the streets unfurled like ribbons, guiding our path. “Late for exploration,” you might muse, yet serendipity was my companion, embodied by a fellow passenger. Beside me sat a man of outgoing charm, an instant friend, and an indispensable guide. He embraced his role with gusto, illuminating my path through the labyrinthine routes of Central Kenya. Alas, his sojourn was brief, alighting before me, leaving me to steer my destiny upfront. A bodaboda, the motorcycle taxi emblematic of Kenyan streets, was my next charioteer. This bodaboda operator wore a badge of congeniality, his camaraderie kindled by the embers of Kenyan football. His inquiry into my destination unraveled a tapestry of shared passions. With the wind in our faces and the road humming beneath us, he shared tales of his love for the local football team. Ah, that team – the solitary representative of their region in the premier league, reveling in their inaugural season. For this bodaboda pilot, football wasn’t merely a sport; it was his heartbeat, his economic sustenance, and his connection to a greater community. He bared the logistical challenges faced by his ilk, ferrying fervent fans to the distant pitch tucked away from the town’s heart. Those treacherous roads, like the threads of fate, wove a tale of perseverance and commitment. His insights into the game were akin to a philosopher’s treatise – thoughtful, incisive, and deeply contemplative. He pondered the game’s potential televised broadcast, only to quash his optimism with a resigned shake of his head. Broadcasting partnerships remained elusive, and the game might find its voice through the team’s social media channels. In moments of candid conversation, we men managed to span the spectrum of discourse, skimming over politics, leaping into sports, and diving into societal quandaries. Names were inconsequential; it was the camaraderie that bound us. As the clock unfurled its arms to 8:15, the team bus emerged, a behemoth gliding through the streets, collecting players like celestial bodies falling into orbit. Unbeknownst to those athletes – committed to matters of the stomach – an evening of camaraderie awaited, wrapped in the guise of supper. As the wheels turned, my lens was ready to capture more than just images. It would immortalize the passion coursing through these stories, the devotion painted on every face, and the unity forged on fields and roads. Day one as a club photographer had unveiled more than a series of clicks; it had unveiled a world of narratives waiting to be embraced and shared. The journey had just begun, and every shutter click was another stroke in the portrait of Kenya’s footballing heart.

August 26, 2023 No Comments

Football

The Swift Unconventional Scouting of Innocent Wafula.

In the intricate world of scouting and recruitment, where meticulous analysis and strategy often reign supreme, former Gor Mahia assistant coach Frank Ouna unveils a tale that defies conventional wisdom. A scouting mission that took less than 45 minutes from spotting to signing, creating a legend of its own in the football lore. The Setting: May 22nd, 2014, Mumias – A drizzly Thursday afternoon gave way to an odd fixture between Gor Mahia and Chemilil Sugar. On paper, Gor Mahia fielded a star-studded lineup, yet it was an unassuming figure on Chemilil’s roster that would steal the spotlight. Enter Innocent Wafula: An unfamiliar name on the field, Wafula was tasked with taking on the indefatigable “Wazza,” a.k.a. Walusimbi. But from the opening whistle, Wafula showcased audacious skills that left even seasoned defenders in awe. A series of deft dribbles and nimble maneuvers had the Gor Mahia camp collectively scratching their heads. A Curious Query: With Wafula’s prowess causing a stir, Ouna approached Chemilil’s head coach, Francis Baraza, to inquire about the enigmatic winger. The response was “Innocent Wafula,” a name that would soon become etched in Ouna’s memory. Bobby’s Epiphany: Gor Mahia’s head coach, Bobby Williamson, couldn’t ignore the spectacle unfolding before him. Ouna’s introduction of Wafula’s name led to a swift decision. “We need two players on him,” Williamson declared. And just like that, Wafula’s fate was sealed. The Tactical Tango: Gor Mahia shuffled their formation, deploying resources to quell Wafula’s magic. Tactical adjustments and defensive partnerships formed and reformed, yet the elusive Wafula danced his way through each scenario, leaving defenders befuddled. Comedic Exchange: Even linguistic barriers couldn’t curb Wafula’s confidence. Communicating in Luganda, he turned Gor Mahia’s attempts at containment into a comical charade. Defenders’ efforts were met with a boyish grin and a retort that cemented Wafula’s status as a footballing prankster. The Rainy Respite: Just as Wafula seemed unstoppable, the heavens intervened. A torrential downpour turned the pitch into a quagmire, subduing his lightning-quick moves. The elements that day brought a much-needed relief for the Gor Mahia defenders. The Rainy Revelation: Amidst the unpredictable weather, Gor Mahia’s fortunes shifted. A solitary goal for the home team marked a turning point, aided by the now-infamous rain-soaked pitch. As Victor Wanyama aptly summed it up, “Grao ni opponent,” meaning the grass itself became an opponent. The Aftermath: Ouna’s anecdote takes an unexpected twist as he reveals that Wafula’s signing had taken place during the initial 10 minutes of that fateful encounter. A decision so swift, it defied tradition and captured a talent that would go on to shine brightly in subsequent seasons. In a football world often governed by data and deliberation, Innocent Wafula’s tale stands as a testament to the unpredictable beauty of the beautiful game. A player discovered in the blink of an eye, whose performance defied both opponents and the elements themselves. Truly, a rain-soaked revelation that will forever be etched in the annals of football folklore.

August 22, 2023 No Comments

Football

Dancing with the Devil: The Never-Ending Violence in Kenyan Football.

Over the years, Kenyan football has been in a constant struggle to reinvent itself and become a force on the continental and global stage. General fan apathy, endless bans from governing bodies, mismanagement, and financial troubles have ensured that this still remains a step too far. However, one issue has remained a constant itch to the game – hooliganism. An insidious problem that has chipped away at the foundations of Kenyan football, hooliganism has robbed the game of fans and investment through the constant negative coverage that comes with it. A football hooligan put simply is a spectator at football events who engages in violent and all-round disorderly behavior. Most hooliganism cases in Kenyan football are more prevalent during club matches rather than the international stage. In the last five years, there have been numerous cases of hooliganism that have seen most matches abandoned or delayed at the very least. This period also coincided with Kenyan football losing numerous sponsorships. The most recent incident saw a league match between Gor Mahia and Vihiga Bullets abandoned with only one half of football played – after ugly and violent scenes in the stands as fans and stewards clashed. According to Gor Mahia chairman, Ambrose Rachier, hooliganism incidents are often triggered by fans being frustrated by refereeing decisions. “Hooliganism was quite rampant when I was first elected chairman,” Rachier explained in a recent interview with Citizen Digital. “Most fans often react without necessarily understanding how refereeing decisions are made.” Rachier also attributes the vice to fans being under the influence of alcohol and drugs. “Acts of drunkenness where fans become irresponsible have also contributed,” he added. Former Harambee Stars player and FKF caretaker Committee member, Bob Ogolla, points the finger at poor officiating, rogue fans, and mismanagement. “In the past, fans would break into stadiums to avoid paying for tickets. However, the problem has persisted mainly due to poor officiating. Generally, most fans are peaceful people. It is things like poor officiating that trigger them to misbehave,” he added. As hooliganism continues to rear its ugly head, Kenya Premier League teams continue to be the most affected by this scourge. Fans staying away from stadiums due to security concerns are a natural consequence. “Hooliganism has stopped a section of fans from coming into stadiums because of fear. It has had a serious effect in terms of scaring potential fans attending matches. That is a natural effect,” Rachier laments. AFC Leopard’s CEO, Victor Bwibo, concurs: “The negativity that comes with hooliganism means that you lose fans, and it means sponsors and benefactors shy away too.” Two of the biggest clubs in the country, Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, boast of having arguably the most passionate fans in the Kenyan Premier League. The two clubs have often – sometimes unfairly, had to bear the brunt of hooliganism cases with their fans constantly stereotyped as rowdy and disorderly. Given that most cases often involve fans of the two clubs, there might be some elements of truth to the stereotype. However, hooliganism is not just a two club issue. To look at it that way would be absolving everyone else of responsibility and scapegoating two clubs that have also fallen victim to this problem. Rachier agrees that Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards cases are only more visible because they have more fans compared to institutional clubs like Ulinzi and K.C.B. Leopards CEO, Bwibo admits that hooliganism might be a problem with his club, but is hesitant to label every fan as a hooligan. “It is not the general fan base but rather a few bad apples [involved with hooliganism].” While this assertion that the comparative acts of a few eventually taint everyone else might be right, it still does not explain how this passion for the game eventually turns into overzealous criminal behavior. It is easy to dismiss hooliganism as isolated cases of lunacy and over the top fanaticism, but the truth is football hooliganism is a societal and cultural issue. The disorganization and the chaos witnessed in the upper echelons of Kenyan football management, and the rowdiness and criminality in the stands are in a perfect symbiosis; feeding off each other to create unending hurdles in the development of football in the country. The stuttering growth of Kenyan football may be attributed to many things, but to successfully climb up the rungs and become a football powerhouse, issues like hooliganism that may be considered inconsequential need to be addressed first. Investing more in matchday security goes without saying. “Most league matches have a maximum of two police officers. The number of policemen brought to handle security during matches is very few,” Bob Ogolla points out. Football management, in conjunction with security agencies, needs to put in place stringent and punitive measures that not only dissuade potential hooligans but also make an example of those found guilty of hooliganism. Kenyan football could also borrow a leaf from other leagues by compiling a register of known hooligans and banning them from attending matches. “We are still far away from being able to have things like registers in Kenya,” Bob Ogolla explains. He, however, insists that perpetrators should face very severe punishment. It can be argued that hooliganism is given life by misplaced passion which means with sufficient reforms, this zeal for the game can be positively channeled into helping bring crowds into the stadiums. Ultimately, the responsibility of fixing this problem falls squarely on the shoulders of all stakeholders involved with football in the country. The violence and destruction of property often witnessed serve only to tarnish the image of an industry still struggling to find its feet. If Kenyan football is to become a force to reckon with, as every Kenyan dreams it to be, then issues like hooliganism need to become a thing of the past. A last-gasp pitch invasion from a set of fans when Nairobi United where leading 1-0 against Zoo FC in an FKF Division One Promotion Playoff match played at RVIST

August 7, 2023 No Comments

Football

Clash of the Titans and Underdogs: FKFPL 23/24 Season Fixtures to Look Out For.

Football fans across Kenya are eagerly anticipating the start of the FKFPL 23/24 season, and with good reason! The fixtures for the upcoming season promise to deliver thrilling encounters, heated rivalries, and the return of some legendary teams. Let’s take a closer look at the fixtures to watch out for in the highly anticipated season, along with some historical context. Shabana’s Triumphant Return: Shabana FC, the legendary Kisii-based club, is making a triumphant return to the top flight after an 18-year absence. Shabana has a rich history and was once a formidable force in Kenyan football. Their match against AFC Leopards in the past defined one of the most dramatic moments in the Premier League. Their victory denied Ingwe the title and left the star-studded team settling for a distant fourth position. As Shabana returns to the top-tier, they will be eager to rekindle their past glory and prove that they belong in the big league once again. SHABANA FC 2023 Shabana FC won this year's National Super League to earn their promotion to the Kenya Premier League. The 2023/24 season kicks off next month. They last featured in the premier league 17 years ago (2006). The club was formed in 1980. pic.twitter.com/3sjRRWltL2 — Kanyingi Njoroge (@kanyinginjoroge) July 26, 2023 Wazito FC’s Transformation: Wazito FC, a club with a 12-year history, has undergone a significant transformation. The Football Kenya Federation approved their name change request, and going forward, the team will be known as Muhoroni Youth FC. Wazito FC had a rather tumultuous history, facing financial challenges and management issues. The Kenyan outfit said sponsors were unfamiliar with the name, and with the change in ownership & location, went through with the change. The real Muhoroni Youth vacated their second division status to Darajani Gogo FC. The decision to rebrand as Muhoroni Youth FC comes with renewed hope for a fresh start. Muhoroni Youth FC will be looking to create a new legacy in the FKFPL under their new banner and distance themselves from the previous struggles. Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has approved a request by Wazito FC to change its name to Muhoroni Youth FC. The club that was originally known as Muhoroni Youth FC was in existence until last year when it sold its National Super League (NSL) slot to Darajani Gogo. So until… pic.twitter.com/tUjpYgHEEV — TV47 (@tv47news) July 28, 2023 AFC Leopards’ Heartbreak and Hope: AFC Leopards’ heartbreaking loss to Shabana many years ago still remains etched in the memories of their fans. That match denied the star-studded Ingwe the title, and since 1998, they haven’t been able to recapture the Premier League crown. The historic league was fiercely fought to the very last day between AFC Leopards, Utalii FC, Gor Mahia, and Mumias Sugar. AFC Leopards, perched at the top of the table, only needed one point to clinch the title against Shabana, who were rooted at the bottom of the table. Shabana, under Danish coach Flemming Jacobsen, emerged as a tough opponent for the heavyweights and secured an unexpected victory. As AFC Leopards faces Shabana once again this season, the stakes are high, and fans will be hoping for a different outcome. Additionally, their clash against Gor Mahia is always a battle of the giants, making it a must-watch fixture. Murang’a Seal’s Unique Approach: As Murang’a Seal gears up for their maiden FKFPL campaign, their coach, Vincent Nyaberi, has a unique approach to squad-building. Despite earning promotion by finishing second in the National Super League (NSL), Nyaberi is resisting the temptation to sign too many Premier League players. He believes that players from the NSL may find it easier to adapt to the top flight, making his squad predominantly comprised of rising talents. Murang’a Seal’s fans will be curious to see if this strategy pays off in their debut season and allows them to build a new chapter in their football history. Fixtures to Watch: The fixtures themselves promise to be gripping affairs: Good morning #FootballKE fans. Here is a tentative fixture for the games we intend to attend. Comment with a fixture you are excited to attend, we will add it. We shall communicate Logistics in due time. 🫡#FootballKE pic.twitter.com/TVMp2nyVsG — FootballKE🇰🇪⚽️ (@FootballKe_90) August 2, 2023 As the season unfolds, football enthusiasts can expect to witness not only thrilling matches but also the history of each fixture coming to life on the field. Each clash carries with it a unique narrative, rich in the tales of triumph, heartbreak, and the pursuit of greatness. So, mark your calendars and prepare for the drama to unfold on the Kenyan football stage!

August 3, 2023 No Comments

Football

Two Football Realities: How Kenya’s Struggles Opened the Door for Tanzanian Triumph.

Once known as the powerhouse of East African football, Kenya now finds itself trailing behind its Tanzanian counterparts in the continental arena. The recent success of Tanzanian teams in the CAF inter Club competitions, coupled with their thriving sponsorship landscape, highlights the contrasting fortunes of two nations that once stood on equal footing. Kenyan football, once a beacon of hope and a source of national pride, now finds itself grappling with a host of challenges that have relegated it to a shadow of its former self. Unlike Tanzania, which boasts four slots in the CAF inter Club competitions, Kenya only manages to secure two, reflecting the glaring disparity in the current state of football affairs. Gor Mahia, a legendary club with an impressive record of 20 titles, faced the agony of missing out on the continental stage due to unresolved player wage issues. FIFA’s intervention through its dispute resolution mechanism was an embarrassing blow for Kenyan football, showcasing a lack of financial discipline that hinders progress and growth. In stark contrast, Tanzanian giants Young Africans (Yanga) made history by reaching the CAF Confederation Cup finals, cementing their status as trailblazers from the region. Their journey to the finals was nothing short of heroic, proving that with determination and proper management, East African clubs can compete with the best on the continent. The disparity in sponsorship prowess is another glaring factor that separates the two nations. Tanzanian football revels in a robust sponsorship landscape, with teams like Yanga enjoying the support of close to ten sponsors, including kit sponsors for various tournaments. In contrast, Kenyan teams struggle to secure even a single sponsor, resulting in financial woes that hamper their ability to attract quality talent and maintain competitive squads. As one of the oldest and most respected teams in Kenya, Mathare United’s relegation to the National Super League (nsl) for the first time in its history symbolizes the onslaught faced by Kenyan football. This decline is a sobering reminder of the urgent need for rejuvenation and restructuring within the Kenyan football ecosystem. On the bright side, Kakamega Homeboyz will represent Kenya in the CAF inter Club competitions, displaying a glimmer of hope amid the darkness. Their upcoming clash against El Hilal from Libya, with a potential encounter against Rwanda’s Rayon Sports, provides an opportunity for Kenyan football to shine on the continental stage once more. However, the road to redemption remains arduous, as Kenya faces stiff competition from emerging football forces like Rwanda, South Sudan, and even Somalia. While Kenya may have defeated Tanzania in AFCON 2019, it is evident that sustained success and progress require long-term investments in youth development, infrastructure, and governance. Rwanda’s hosting of the 73rd FIFA Congress in the magnificent BK Arena demonstrates their commitment to elevating their football status. Their emergence as a force to reckon with is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership and strategic planning. As the gap between Tanzania and Kenya widens in the realm of football, it is crucial for Kenyan authorities, football administrators, and sponsors to unite under a shared vision of revival. The time for complacency is over; only by embracing change and adapting to the demands of modern football can Kenya hope to reclaim its former glory and rise again as a formidable force on the African football stage.

July 28, 2023 No Comments