FKF reschedules National Super League kick-off amid promotion dispute
.jpg)
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 09.09.25. | 19:34
The second-tier league was set to begin on 13–14 September across the country, but its kick-off was thrown into disarray after the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) halted proceedings and suspended the promotion of Soy United and Compel SC
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Leagues and Competitions Department has pushed back the start of the 2025/26 National Super League (NSL) season to the weekend of 20–21 September, a week later than the initial dates..
The second-tier league was set to begin on 13–14 September across the country, but its kick-off was thrown into disarray after the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) halted proceedings and suspended the promotion of Soy United and Compel SC.
The postponement stems from a protracted dispute involving Gucha Stars, who successfully challenged FKF’s decision to dock them points for allegedly fielding an ineligible player, Eugene Nyakaga, during their third-tier match against Nakuru Bucks last season.
Investigations later revealed that the player on the pitch was Bildad Marube, who impersonated Nyakaga, breaching FKF Rule 6.2.11, which prohibits the use of false information in player registration.
On 23 May 2025, the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee (LCC) awarded the match to Nakuru Bucks with a 3–0 scoreline.
Further, they docked Gucha three points, handed Nyakaga a 365-day suspension, and directed Marube to face the Disciplinary Committee.
This decision dropped Gucha from first to third place in Division One, resulting in Soy United gaining automatic promotion and Compel SC advancing to the promotion playoff.
However, a High Court order obtained by Gucha Stars through lawyer Ken Ochieng granted a replay of the decisive fixture, a ruling that nullified Soy’s promotion and scrapped Compel SC’s playoff victory over Bumbani Stars, pending the replay outcome.
Despite the delay, FKF confirmed that the fixtures will remain unchanged.
Compel SC are expected to use Sudi Stadium and may open their campaign at home against Kisumu All Stars.
Last season’s playoff finalists, Naivas will begin their season against Fortune Sacco, who will make a return to their home ground, Wangu’ru, after three years away.
Kabati Youth will make their NSL debut with a clash against Vihiga United at Thika Stadium, while Migori Youth are set to host Mwatate United at Awendo Green Stadium.
Equity will kick off their season away to Luanda Villa at Mumboha Stadium, whereas Mully Children Family (MCF FC) will inaugurate their newly constructed MCF Sports Complex with a tie against Mombasa United.
Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) will host Nairobi City Stars at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, Nzoia Sugar will face 3K FC at Sudi Stadium, and Kibera Black Stars will welcome FC Talanta at Vapor Grounds in round one action.
.jpg)
