FKF Premier League sides to face off as Elite Pre-season Cup fixtures are released

Bidco United will look to defend their crown when the third edition of the Elite Pre-season Cup kicks off on Tuesday, 2 September, at the Utalii Grounds in Nairobi.

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According to the fixtures released, three other teams, Kariobangi Sharks, Sofapaka, and FKF Premier League debutants Nairobi United, will join the Oilers in the three-day competition designed to prepare clubs for the 2025/26 Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKF-PL) season, which starts later in September.

Unlike the previous editions that featured eight teams split into groups, this year’s tournament will have only four teams facing each other in a round-robin format.

Kariobangi Sharks, Sofapaka, and Bidco United will each be making their third appearance, while Nairobi United will feature for the first time.

This season’s edition also marks a departure from the past, when National Super League sides such as Kajiado FC, Rainbow, and MCF FC participated.

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For the first time, no second-tier team will be involved.

The Elite Pre-season Cup has steadily grown into an important curtain-raiser for the FKF-PL.

It allows teams to gauge their readiness, experiment with tactics, and build match fitness in a competitive setting.

Coaches often use it to test new signings and blend fresh talent with seasoned players, ensuring a smoother transition into the league campaign.

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For clubs, the tournament is more than a warm-up; it offers a psychological edge.

Bidco United’s 2023 triumph, where they edged Kariobangi Sharks 2-1 at the Kasarani Annex, boosted their confidence ahead of a challenging season.

With prize money, Ksh1 million in both previous editions, also up for grabs, it provides much-needed financial support for clubs fine-tuning their squads.

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The inaugural edition in 2022 was won by Police FC under coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo, who guided his side to a 2-0 victory over Nairobi City Stars at Nyayo Stadium, courtesy of goals from David Simiyu and Marvin Nabwire.