Day of draws as confusion mars Mashemeji derby over venue

Tusker and Sabana during FKF Premier League match at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos County on Wednesday, Feb 26, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Tusker FC missed a golden opportunity to move top of the FKF Premier League table after being held to a 1-1 draw by Shabana FC at the Ruaraka Grounds yesterday.

The Brewers needed a win to overtake Kenya Police, but a late equaliser salvaged a point for them.

Shabana took the lead in the 32nd minute through Keith Imbali, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home past the Tusker goalkeeper.

The Brewers struggled to break down a resolute Shabana defence and looked set for a disappointing loss until the dying moments of the match.

Erick Balecho struck in the 90th minute to snatch a point for Tusker, ensuring they remained second on the log with 40 points, one behind Kenya Police. Shabana sit eighth with 30 points.

Elsewhere, Mathare United also secured a late equaliser in their relegation battle against KCB. The Bankers had taken the lead through Patrick Otieno but were denied maximum points when Cetric Asango scored in the 83rd minute. The 1-1 result was a setback for KCB, whose title push has now suffered another blow.

Meanwhile, the much-anticipated Mashemeji derby between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards continues to be plagued by venue uncertainty.

Initially scheduled for Kasarani Stadium, the game had to be moved due to ongoing renovations in preparation for the African Nations Championship. The presence of construction materials along the touchline raised safety concerns, making the venue unfit for the high-profile clash.

Current reports suggest the match will now take place at Nyayo Stadium, though this is yet to be officially confirmed.

At one point, AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda even floated the idea of shifting the match to either Tanzania or Uganda due to lack of a suitable venue in Kenya.