The 2025/26 SportPesa League season kicked off with surprises and late drama across the country, as the opening round delivered goals, upsets, and a few reminders that no team will have it easy this season.
Champions Kenya Police FC were absent from action on Matchday 1 due to CAF Champions League commitments, while Nairobi United also had their fixture postponed as they took part in the CAF Confederation Cup.
In Friday’s opener, KCB FC, under the stewardship of Robert Matano, made a strong start by beating Tusker FC 2-0. It was a sweet result for Matano, who previously guided Tusker to league glory and now hopes to mount another title charge with the Bankers.
Saturday’s matches produced two draws. Kariobangi Sharks and Bandari played to a drab 0-0 stalemate at Kasarani Annex, while over at the Ulinzi Complex, AFC Leopards came from behind to hold Sofapaka 1-1. Japheth Jeffery had fired the visitors ahead in the 4th minute, before Boniface Munyendo equalized for Ingwe.
Sunday saw a flurry of talking points. At the Murang’a Sportpesa Arena, Murang’a SEAL were stunned at home by Ulinzi Stars, who secured a 1-0 win thanks to a moment of brilliance from Paul Okoth.
Over at Kasarani Stadium, record champions Gor Mahia endured a nightmare start, falling 1-0 to Bidco United. Despite dominating possession, Gor were undone in the 88th minute when Newton Ochieng calmly slotted home from the penalty spot to hand Bidco a famous win.
Back in Kisii, the Glamour Boys, Shabana FC, lit up the Gusii Stadium with a thrilling 4-2 victory over newbies APS Bomet. Brian Michira stole the show with two early goals in the 2nd and 12th minutes, before an own goal in the 19th minute made it 3-0. APS Bomet clawed back into the game with goals from Bob Cetric (36’) and Hansel (89’), but Derick Otieno sealed the result deep into stoppage time (90+5’) to send the home fans wild. It was a harsh welcome to top-flight football for the prompted side.
In Monday’s clash at Kasarani Annex, Posta Rangers staged a late comeback to beat Mathare United 2-1. Eli Asieke opened the scoring for the Slum Boys in the 43rd minute, but the Mail men turned the tide through Faustin Ojiambo (73’) and a late winner by Trevor Omondi in the 85th minute.
Here’s the standings after Round 1 of matches, Glamour boys on summit of the log.
