Thrills, Triumphs, and Turmoil: Reflecting on the 2022/23 FKF Premier League Season

The FKF Premier League season finally came to a close on June 25, 2023, providing fans with an intense title race, relegation battles, and unexpected twists. As we retrospectively analyze this season, let’s delve into the highlights and key moments that shaped it.

Gor Mahia emerged as the champions of the 2022/23 FKF Premier League, securing their record-extending twentieth title on the ultimate day of the season. Overcoming numerous challenges before the competition even began, Gor Mahia displayed resilience and determination to clinch the league title.

“It’s fantastic that so few players and coaches get to experience moments like this, winning trophies. With 18 teams in this league, it’s us who get to savor this victory, especially in a challenging season. Our on and off-field issues have been well-documented, including a transfer ban and the incorporation of many young academy players into the squad. These challenges were significant, but the players stepped up, and they deserve this moment,” expressed Coach McKinstry.

As the champions, Gor Mahia will now have the opportunity to represent the country in the CAF Champions League.

Tusker FC, accustomed to winning titles, emerged as worthy challengers for the championship this season. Despite a slow start, the Brewers gained momentum as the season progressed, eventually finding themselves in the title contention.

While they narrowly missed out on the league title, Tusker still has a chance to secure silverware by competing in the MozzartBet Cup. Winning this cup competition would grant them a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup and they will be determined to make the upcoming cup final count in their favor.

Nzoia Sugar FC emerged as the surprise package of the season. After fighting against relegation in the previous season, they finished a respectable fourth this time around, with only goal difference separating them from third-placed Police FC.

Under the guidance of coach Salim Babu, Nzoia Sugar displayed beautiful football throughout the season, capturing the hearts of fans across the country.

In terms of relegation, Vihiga Bullets and Mathare United have both been relegated from the top tier. Vihiga Bullet’s stint in the FKF Premier League was short-lived as they gained promotion in the 2020/21 season.

On the other hand, Mathare United, a historic club, experienced relegation for the first time in their history and will now compete in the FKF National Super League.

Wazito secured the sole playoff spot, earning the opportunity to fight for their place in the premier league for another season. Their opponent will be determined after the completion of the FKF National Super League season.

Currently, Mara Sugar and Migori Youth are fiercely competing for the third spot in the NSL, with the eventual third-placed team facing Wazito in a two-legged tie to decide the participant for the 2023/24 premier league season.

Regarding individual and team performances, the golden boot was hotly contested between Kenya Police FC’s Elvis Rupia and Gor Mahia’s Benson Omalla. However, Elvis Rupia emerged as the winner with a record-breaking 27 goals, closely followed by Benson Omalla with a tally of 26 goals.

The golden glove for the best goalkeeper was shared by Gor Mahia’s Gad Mathews and Humphrey Katasi of Nzoia Sugar, as both kept 17 clean sheets, effectively keeping rival teams’ attacks at bay.

In terms of team statistics, Kenya Police FC secured the title of highest-scoring team with 57 goals, closely followed by Gor Mahia with 53 goals.

KCB boasted the meanest defense, conceding only 19 goals, with Police FC and Gor Mahia close behind, having conceded 22 goals each.

We appreciate the supporters for they have played a significant role throughout the season. Supporters of various FKF Premier League clubs flocked to stadiums across the country, creating charged atmospheres that motivated their beloved teams. The vibrant colors and enthusiastic displays by fans have been truly captivating.

Some fan bases have gone a step further by participating in their clubs’ membership programs and purchasing club merchandise, thereby boosting their respective clubs’ revenue streams. Additionally, several fan bases have initiated programs to award the man of the match performances within their teams, aiming to motivate their players even further.

With the 2022/23 season now behind us, we eagerly anticipate the upcoming 2023/24 season of the FKF Premier League, scheduled to commence on August 26, 2023.