Kenya Police FC have etched their name in the annals of Kenyan football history, clinching their maiden FKF Premier League title after a tense 1-0 victory over Shabana FC. This remarkable triumph saw the law enforcers rise above perennial heavyweights Gor Mahia and Tusker, capping off a season defined by resilience, tactical discipline, and a dramatic late surge.
Few could have predicted Kenya Police’s ascension at the start of the 2024/25 campaign. The club, which only earned promotion to the top flight in 2021, began the season mired in inconsistency. They even sat at the lower end of the table at one point of the season. The turning point came with the appointment of Burundian coach Etienne Ndayiragije. He replaced the outgoing duo of Anthony Kimani and Salim Babu. Under Ndayiragije’s stewardship, Police embarked on a stunning nine-match unbeaten run. Transforming from relegation candidates to title contenders.
Heading into the penultimate round, Kenya Police needed just a draw to secure the title. However, they faced a formidable Shabana side that had lost only twice all year. The match was a tense affair. Both sides created chances but failed to break the deadlock until the 77th minute. Brian Okoth rose highest to meet a cross, powering home a bullet header that sent the Police bench and their travelling fans into raptures. The solitary goal proved enough, as Police held on to claim all three points and, with it, the championship.
Gor Mahia’s Downfall and Tusker’s Missed Opportunity
For Gor Mahia, the result marked a bitter end to their quest for a third consecutive title and a record-extending 22nd league crown. Despite a 3-2 win over Ulinzi Stars played simultaneously, Gor Mahia’s fate was no longer in their hands. Their season was marred by instability, with the club cycling through four coaches and struggling to maintain consistency both on and off the pitch. Defensive lapses and internal turmoil ultimately cost them, as they finished behind the new champions.
Tusker, another traditional powerhouse, also faltered in the final stretch. A goalless draw against Kariobangi Sharks saw them slip further down the table, missing out on the chance to challenge for the title. Kakamega Homeboyz’s late surge even pushed Tusker out of the top three, underlining the unpredictability of this season’s run-in.
Kenya Police’s triumph is not just a victory for the club but a watershed moment for the FKF Premier League. Their disciplined, collective approach and ability to overcome adversity have set a new benchmark. As champions, they will now represent Kenya in the CAF Champions League next season. A meteoric rise for the club and a source of inspiration for clubs across the country.
The 2024/25 season will be remembered as the year the law enforcers rewrote the script, dethroned the giants, and brought a new dawn to Kenyan football.