FKF to organise tournament for clubs without CAF licence

Parlos FC striker Bernard Ochieng shields the ball away from Gor Mahia defender Haron Shakava in last year’s Gotv sheild at Kasarani Stadium. [PHOTO: DENNIS OKEYO/STANDARD]

Winning the GOtv Shield tournament has always been the dream of any football team in Kenya.

But the challenge of playing in the Confederations Cup, to which teams qualify after lifting the title, has been a constant nightmare for many.

Things might get murkier next year, with clubs required to be licensed before they can take part in any CAF competition.

Faced with this predicament, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) will start another cup competition to accommodate teams that are not able to meet the tough conditions. The federation will run the competition alongside the GOtv shield.

FKF President Nick Mwendwa said they are in talks with some sponsors to fund the alternative competition.

“The CAF licensing rules are being implemented from next year and we understand that a number of our clubs will not be able to make it. To cushion them, we will start an alternative competition, as we continue to help them meet the licensing requirements,” he said.

From next year, no club will take part in any of the CAF’s competitions without a licence from the local federation. To acquire the licence, clubs must meet certain parametres that include finance and infrastructure.

The FKF boss was speaking during the launch of this year’s GOtv shield, which has been snubbed by three Kenyan Premier League (KPL) teams; Mathare United, Sofapaka and Nairobi City Stars.

Another four National Super League teams St Joseph, Ligi Ndogo, Shabana and Zoo Kericho will also not take part.

That notwithstanding, the big boys have been received relatively easy fixtures in the opening matches of the tournament on June 25.

Defending champions Bandari start their title defence with a date against Lamu-based Tezo. Nakumatt, who were runner- up last year, will visit Super Matuga for their first match.

League champions Gor Mahia will host Mahakama Mombasa, while 2013 winners AFC Leopards will visit Mumbi Nationale in their opening match.

This year’s edition has attracted 64 teams with the highlight of the first round being the clash pitting Nakuru All Stars against Bidco United.