FKF-WPL: Vihiga Queens upbeat as Women's topflight league kicks off

Ruth Khasoha (L) of Vihiga Queens FC contest for ball with Fasila Adhiambo of Ulinzi Starlets FC contest for ball with during their FKF Women Premier League match at Ulinzi Complex on January 22, 2024. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

The 2024/25 FKF Women’s Premier League kicks off this weekend with five-time champions Vihiga Queens aiming to reclaim the title they lost to Kenya Police Bullets last season.

Despite the significance of the league in the development of Kenyan women’s football, it continues to fly under the radar, marred by a lack of sponsorship and broadcast exposure, two factors that the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) must address to help elevate the sport.

Vihiga Queens, one of the most successful teams in the league's history, will open their campaign against Ulinzi Starlets at Moi Stadium, Kisumu on Saturday at 1pm.

Head coach Boniface Nyamunyamuh is determined to see his side start the season with a win, after enduring a tough season last year where they fell short of their targets.

“Our preparations for the season have been great. The team is ready, and we have addressed the areas where we missed last season. We have quality in the squad, and I believe we can compete for the title this season. The match against Ulinzi is a must-win for us if we want to set the tone for the campaign,” Nyamunyamuh confidently stated ahead of the fixture.

Having lost their grip on the league title to Kenya Police Bullets last season, Vihiga Queens have regrouped, with Nyamunyamuh hinting at a more focused and structured approach to avoid the mistakes that derailed their campaign.

Ulinzi Starlets, on the other hand, will be eager to spoil the former champions' party and announce themselves as serious contenders this season.

Meanwhile, defending champions Kenya Police Bullets will begin their title defence against visiting Kisped Queens at Police Sacco Stadium (1pm).

Having made a statement last season by dethroning Vihiga Queens, Police Bullets will be under pressure to replicate their success, and a win in their opener is crucial to setting a strong foundation.

Kisped Queens, though underdogs, could provide a stern challenge for the champions. A victory for Kenya Police would serve as a reminder to the rest of the league that they are still the team to beat, while Kisped will be looking to cause an early upset.

Elsewhere, Bungoma Queens will host Kibera Soccer at Bungoma National Polytechnic (12pm). Bungoma Queens will be keen to make a strong start to the season, especially at home, while Kibera Soccer, known for their resilience, will be eyeing a positive result away from home.

Another intriguing match will take place in Nakuru at the ASK Showground, where Trinity Starlets will face off against Bunyore Starlets (1pm). Both teams finished mid-table last season and will be aiming for improved performances in the new campaign.

Down in the coastal city, Mombasa Olympic will lock horns with Wadadia at Ronald Ngala Primary (3pm).

Mombasa Olympic, who have struggled for consistency in recent seasons, will be hoping to capitalize on home advantage. Wadadia, a team with immense potential, will be seeking to kick-start their campaign with a victory on the road.

On Sunday, action continues in Kisumu with Kisumu All Starlets taking on Zetech Sparks at Moi Stadium from 1:00 pm.

Zetech Sparks, known for their fast-paced play, will face a tricky away test against a Kisumu side that has traditionally been strong at home.

Despite the wealth of talent in the league and Kenya’s export of top players to clubs across Africa and Europe, the FKF Women’s Premier League remains in the shadows.

The absence of a sponsor and lack of televised matches continue to hamper the growth and visibility of the league, leaving fans and players alike frustrated.

This lack of exposure stands in stark contrast to the quality of football on display, with many players performing at a level that merits more attention and investment.

FKF Women’s Premier League

Saturday’s Fixtures

Bungoma Queens v Kibera Soccer-12pm, Bungoma National Polytechnic

Kenya Police v Kisped Queens-1pm, Police Sacco Stadium

Trinity Starlets v Bunyore Starlets-1pm, ASK Showground, Nakuru

Vihiga Queens v Ulinzi Starlets-1pm, Moi Stadium, Kisumu

Mombasa Olympic v Wadadia-1pm, Ronald Ngala Primary

Sunday’s Fixtures

Kisumu All Starlets v Zetech Sparks-1pm, Moi Stadium, Kisumu