Africa-Press – Kenya. Matchday 20 of the SportPesa Premier League exploded into life with title statements at the top and desperation battles at the bottom, underlining just how thin the margins have become in this season’s race.
The league was a rollercoaster of goals, grit and heartbreak. Every kick mattered as title chasers and survival candidates faced off in battles that could change the season.
Record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia served up a statement of intent on Sunday, claiming a 2–1 victory over APS Bomet in a match charged with revenge and redemption. After suffering a humiliating 4–1 defeat to the same opponents in the first leg, K’Ogalo approached the game with focus and determination.
The win extended their unbeaten run and widened their gap at the top of the table to six points, sending a clear message to all title challengers.
Striker Ebenezer Assifuah reflected on the triumph, “We knew this game was about more than three points. After the first-leg result, we wanted to show our character and make things right. The team gave everything, and it feels great to get this win for the fans.”
He continued, “It wasn’t easy, APS are a strong side, but we stayed patient, stuck to our plan, and found the goals when it mattered most.”
Mathare United produced a weekend shocker by tearing apart Tusker 3–1. The Slum Boys, long seen as relegation fodder, dominated with pace and precision, leaving Tusker rattled and their goal difference down to –4. For Mathare fans, accustomed to seasons of disappointment, it was a Valentine’s Day to remember.
Midfielder Brian ‘Supa Rio’ Ochieng said, “We knew it would be a tough match, but we went out and gave everything. The team showed great spirit. This one is for the fans—they’ve stuck with us all season. It’s a confidence booster, but we have to keep pushing. Tusker are strong, but we stayed composed and made the most of our chances.”
Shabana also made their intentions clear with a clinical 2–0 victory over Posta Rangers. From the first whistle, the visitors controlled the game, leaving Posta scrambling and unable to respond. The Mailmen remain 12th with 24 points, facing a daunting climb away from danger.
Midfielder Brian Michira said, “We had to stay patient. Posta came at us, but we stuck to our plan and managed the game well. Scoring early helped calm the nerves. The fans motivate us—hearing them behind us makes a difference.”
Sunday’s action continued with chaos and attacking flair as Sofapaka and Murang’a Seal produced a seven-goal thriller. Sofapaka struck early, sparking celebrations, only for Murang’a Seal to respond with relentless intensity, turning the game on its head to claim a 3–2 victory. The visitors’ energy left defenders chasing shadows, and Murang’a Seal climbed to fourth with 33 points, while Sofapaka remain bottom on 14.
Elsewhere, AFC Leopards were held to a 0–0 draw by Bandari in a tense and nervy encounter. Leopards’ goalkeeper Humphrey Katasi said, “We had our chances but didn’t take them. It’s disappointing, but we kept a clean sheet and remain in the hunt. We just need to keep working.”
Bandari striker Felix Ouya added, “Getting a point here is important. It’s never easy in Nairobi. The lads showed character.”
Mid-table battles delivered further drama. KCB and Kariobangi Sharks shared spoils in a 1–1 draw, with Sharks striker Humphrey Aroko admitting, “We created opportunities but didn’t take them. It’s frustrating, but we can’t dwell on it. Next week, we need to be sharper.”
Ulinzi Stars and Kenya Police also played out a 1–1 stalemate, with both sides fighting hard but unable to find the winning edge.
As it stands, Gor Mahia (43) lead the table, but AFC Leopards (37), Shabana (34), and Murang’a Seal (33) remain in close pursuit, keeping the pressure high. Kakamega Homeboyz (31) and Kenya Police (30) are also very much in contention for continental qualification.
At the other end, the relegation fight is fierce. Sofapaka (14), Bidco United (16), Kariobangi Sharks (18), APS Bomet (18), and Ulinzi Stars (18) are desperate for points, with every mistake potentially fatal.
The SportPesa Premier League continues to deliver high-octane drama. Every goal, tackle, and save matters. Titles, continental spots, and survival battles remain wide open. Can Gor Mahia maintain their lead? Will the chasing pack mount a late surge? In this league, nothing is guaranteed, and every weekend tells a story.
