Excitement, high hopes as FKF PL kicks off

Gor Mahia celebrate after clinching the FkF Premier League 2023 title against Nairobi City Stars at The Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, Sunday 25, June, 2023. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The 2023-2024 FKF Premier League season is finally here with us.

As fans across the nation eagerly anticipate the unfolding drama, this season stands poised to captivate hearts and minds like never before.

From fresh talent breaking onto the scene to seasoned veterans pushing their limits, every team's journey is a narrative waiting to be written.

With the return of Gusii giants Shabana into the top-tier league, new rivalries will be ignited and the pursuit of glory will fuel every kick of the ball.

The stage is set for a rollercoaster of emotions, spectacular goals, and unforgettable moments.

One of the stars to watch is two-time FKF Premier League golden boot winner Eric Kapaito who has made a return to the domestic scene by joining Tusker.

The former Kariobangi Sharks attacker netted 25 goals to win in 2021, three years after he went home with the award after netting 16 goals in 2018.

Speaking to the club's media after his return to Kenya after a two-year stint in Ethiopia, Kapaito said he is excited for the new challenge.

“Tusker is one of the biggest teams in the country and I did not think twice to join them when I was approached. I am back home and I have no pressure to perform. I take everything positively and I am looking forward to helping the team by scoring goals," said Kapaito.

“As a striker, I am targeting double digits’ goals this season as we work as a team to achieve the target of reclaiming the title we lost to Gor Mahia."

Tusker will play Bandari at Mbaraki Sports Complex. Last season, Tusker lost both the league title and the FKF Cup despite being in a pole position to lift a double and they will be banking on Kapaito to help improve the team.

But all eyes will be on defending champions Gor Mahia who despite bottling a chance to play in the CAF Champions League are still favourites to retain the title.

K’Ogalo won the title one point ahead of Tusker but failed to make a return to continental stage after being locked out by CAF for failure to adhere to the Club Licensing rules set by the Cairo-based football body.

Having put behind their disappointments, Jonathan McKinstry's side seek to start their title defence on a winning note as they host Sofapaka at Kasarani Stadium.

McKinstry said they still have a lot of work to do but they are ready to fight for the title again.

The Irish tactician also rallied fans to be part of K’Ogalo’s journey from the start.

“It all starts again on Saturday. We look forward to welcoming you at Kasarani Stadium as Gor Mahia set off in pursuit of another FKF Premier League title. Be part of the journey from day one, and play your part in our continued success,” the tactician posted on his social media handles.

The champions have signed Kennedy Onyango, a defender from Nairobi City Stars, Kevin Juma, a midfielder from Nzoia Sugar, and Lawrence Juma returning to the club.

Last season dark forces Nzoia Sugar who finished fourth will be home to Ulinzi Stars as Kenya Police who finished third play Sharks at Kasarani Annex.

On Sunday, former Gor Mahia winger Clifton Miheso will be hoping for a second dream debut for AFC Leopards when Ingwe tackle FC Talanta at Nyayo Stadium.

Newly promoted Shabana FC will hope for the same crowd momentum and results they posted when they won the National Super League last season as they clash with Murangá Seal at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay County.

2023-2024 FKF Premier League fixtures

Saturday

Gor Mahia v Sofapaka, Kasarani

Bandari v Tusker, Mbaraki

Nzoia Sugar v Ulinzi Stars, Sudi

Kariobangi Sharks v Kenya Police, Kasarani Annex

Sunday

Posta Rangers v Bidco United, Kasarani

AFC Leopards v Talanta, Nyayo Stadium

Nairobi City Stars v Muhoroni Youth, Kasarani Annex

Shabana v Murang'a Seal, Raila Odinga Stadium

(All Matches kick-off 3pm)