The 2026/27 league campaign was delayed by a six-week legal dispute and court cases concerning the format of promotion and relegation.
The top tier which was earlier planned to start on August 22nd was stopped by a court order after Kariobangi Sharks protested Football Kenya Federation (FKF’s) decision to relegate them to the lower division.
Sharks (who finished 16th from the previous season) and other parties contested direct relegation rules. After aggrieved parties came to an agreement, Sharks and Mombasa United played in a relegation/promotion play-off.
The first leg ended 2-1 in favour of United, before the return leg was abandoned with Sharks leading 2-1. However, United FC were declared winners following a decision by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Leagues and Competitions Committee.
Gor Mahia off to a flyer
With the road cleared for league action to resume, FKF lined up seven matches on matchday one.
Record champions Gor Mahia started their title defence on Monday night with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Murang’a Seal at Nyayo National Stadium.
Shariff Musa notched a brace as Alpha Onyango and Jackson Dwang also scored to give Gor Mahia a perfect start.
Under coach Charles Akonnor, Gor Mahia, who are chasing a record 23rd league title, got off to superb start with Alpha Onyango finding the back of the net from a well-taken free-kick.
Despite creating a host of chances, Gor Mahia went into the half-time break leading 1-0. At the start of the second period, Musa made it 2-0 in the 49th minute before Dwang added the third in the 56th minute.
Musa, who was in imperious form then scored the fourth in the 62nd minute. Former Gor Mahia forward Josphat Lopaga ensured Murang’a Seal got two goals from the game in the 75th and 88th minutes respectively.
With the opening victory secured, Gor Mahia will shift their attention to their next fixture against APS Bomet, set for Saturday in Homa Bay.
Shabana, Tusker win openers
Back to opening day on Saturday, Shabana FC secured a 1-0 victory against 10-man Posta Rangers while Mathare United drew 0-0 against APS Bomet.
Shabana coach Ahmed Fathi praised the togetherness within his squad, describing the team as a close-knit family following his successful debut in the SportPesa Premier League.
“The players believe in our way of playing and in themselves. We had a plan, and they stuck to it,” said Fathi after the game.
“We are a family now, and this is what happens when you play as a unit. Honestly, it was a 100 percent performance from everyone across the team.
“I am eager to navigate the league and enjoy the journey. We celebrate our first win, but now we shift our focus to preparing for the next match.”
In another fixture, Tusker FC secured a comfortable 2-0 victory against Ulinzi Stars to send a warning to title rivals. Despite a dominant display, the Brewers were forced to wait until the second half to grab the two goals.
Alvin Mange’ni gave Tusker the lead in the 68th minute before new signing from Nigeria Victor Mbaoma struck the second in the 75th minute.
Promoted 3K came from behind to draw 2-2 against Mara Sugar, Migori Youth drew 1-1 against former champions Kenya Police FC, and Nairobi United battled to a 2-2 draw against KCB.
The league will continue on Wednesday with AFC Leopards set to host Bandari FC while Kakamega Homeboyz will start their season against Mombasa United at Bukhungu Stadium.
