FKF Reschedules National Super League Kick-off Amid Ongoing Promotion Dispute

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has announced a one-week delay to the start of the 2025/26 National Super League (NSL) season. Initially scheduled for the weekend of 13–14 September, the second-tier campaign will now commence on 20–21 September following a ruling that unsettled promotion slots.

Promotion Row Involving Gucha Stars

The delay was triggered by a dispute handled by the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT), which suspended the promotion of Soy United and Compel SC. At the centre of the standoff is Gucha Stars, who had challenged FKF’s earlier decision to dock them points for fielding what was believed to be an ineligible player in a Division One fixture against Nakuru Bucks.

According to FKF’s initial findings, Eugene Nyakaga had taken part in the game without proper eligibility. However, further inquiries revealed that the actual player on the pitch was Bildad Marube, who was posing as Nyakaga. This was deemed a violation of FKF Rule 6.2.11, which bars the use of false details during player registration.

In May 2025, the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee (LCC) awarded Nakuru Bucks a 3–0 victory and deducted three points from Gucha Stars. The ruling also imposed a 365-day ban on Nyakaga and referred Marube to the Disciplinary Committee. The decision dropped Gucha from first to third place in Division One, paving the way for Soy United’s automatic promotion and allowing Compel SC to enter the promotion playoff.

However, Gucha secured a High Court order through lawyer Ken Ochieng, which nullified the earlier decision and ordered a replay of the disputed match. This overturned Soy’s promotion and invalidated Compel’s playoff win over Bumbani Stars, effectively leaving the final NSL line-up unresolved as the new season approaches.

Fixture List Remains Untouched

Despite the delays, FKF has confirmed that the fixtures will proceed as initially drawn. Compel SC are expected to host Kisumu All Stars at Sudi Stadium if they retain their place in the division. Naivas, last season’s playoff finalists, will open their campaign against Fortune Sacco, who make a long-awaited return to Wangu’ru after a three-year absence.

Newcomers Kabati Youth are set for their NSL debut at Thika Stadium against Vihiga United, while Migori Youth begin their season at home to Mwatate United in Awendo. Equity FC will play away to Luanda Villa at Mumboha Stadium, and Mully Children Family (MCF FC) are preparing to unveil their new MCF Sports Complex with a home clash against Mombasa United.

Elsewhere, Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) welcomes Nairobi City Stars to the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay. Nzoia Sugar will take on 3K FC at Sudi Stadium, and Kibera Black Stars face FC Talanta at Vapor Grounds as round one action gets underway.