Tusker’s trophy cabinet is laden with an impressive 13 Football Kenya Federation Premier League titles. On the other hand, KCB’s cupboard only has cobwebs.
But now with veteran coach Robert Matano – the man who masterminded Tusker’s three league triumphs in 2012, 2021 and 2022 – is now in charge of KCB, and there is new-found hope on Thika Road that this may be their year.
The two sides will open the new SportPesa FKF Premier League season when they clash at Moi International Sports Centre (MISC) Kasarani in Nairobi on Friday from 6pm.
It will mark the first time in over two years that the arena is hosting a local league match, following its closure in August 2023 for renovations, ahead of the delayed 2024 African Nations Champions (Chan) that was co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania from August 2 to 30.
Seven matches will be on the cards on the opening weekend with 12-time winners AFC Leopards welcoming 2009 champions Sofapaka at Ulinzi Sports Complex tomorrow while 21-time record champions Gor Mahia host Bidco United at MISC on Sunday.
Regarded as one of Kenya’s most successful local football coach, 61-year-old Matano, a four-time Premier League winner, will be in focus on Friday as the bankers look to open with a bang.
Nicknamed “The Lions”, Matano was unveiled as KCB’s coach on June 27 on a one-year contract.
In his trademark show of confidence, the CAF “A” License holder wasted no time in making his intention at the club clear. “This is a club with immense potential, a strong backing, and a clear vision for the future. I am here to win, to compete, and to build a team that reflects the strength and ambition of the KCB brand,” he said.
We have built a team that combines experience, energy, and ambition. The players understand the task ahead: to deliver results and make our fans proud.”
Founded in 1993, the closest KCB have come to winning the league title was 2021 when they finished second with 62 points, three behind champions Tusker.
Last season, KCB finished a disappointing ninth with 42 points. The bankers have bolstered their squad with 10 new signings including the return of evergreen midfielder Humphrey Mieno.
The 35-year-old Mieno has featured for several local and foreign clubs among them Tusker, Leopards and Gor. KCB will miss the services of key defender Suleiman Manzur who has joined Nairobi United.
Tusker, will be hoping for a bright start as they seek to reclaim the title they last won in 22.
After finishing fourth last season, speculation was rife that coach Charles Okere would be shown the door. However, the club has decided to stick with him for another season.
New signings in the brewers’ side include returnee Erick Kpaito, the 2018 league MVP and top scorer.
“The aim is to score double digit goals. It is something I have done before and I believe I can do it again. My only prayer is for an injury free season. We have a good team,” said Kapaito.
Tusker have however lost their top scorer for last season Ryan Ogam who has moved to Austrian top-tier side Wolfsberger Athletik Club.
Kariobangi Sharks v Bandari (MISC, Annex, 3pm)
AFC Leopards v Sofapaka (Ulinzi Sports Complex, 4pm)
Shabana v APS Bomet (Gusii Stadium, 2pm)
Murang’a Seal v Ulinzi Stars (SportsPesa Arena, 3pm)
Gor Mahia v Bidco United (MISC, 4pm)
Mathare United v Posta Rangers (MISC, Annex, 4pm)
