As the 2023-2024 FKF Premier League season draws to a close on Sunday, the excitement and tension have shifted from the top of the table to the bottom.
With Gor Mahia having already secured the championship title four weeks ago, all eyes are now on the fierce battle to avoid relegation.
On Sunday, the final match day promises high drama as Shabana, Sofapaka, and Muhoroni Youth fight to maintain their top-tier status and avoid the drop to the National Super League.
The midweek results have set the stage for an electrifying finale. Shabana gave their survival hopes a significant boost with a convincing 3-0 victory over Bidco United.
This crucial win places them at 16th on the table with 36 points, just one point above the relegation zone. Sofapaka, on the other hand, could only manage a 1-1 draw against Nairobi City Stars, leaving them at 33 points in 16th place.
Muhoroni Youth’s remarkable 6-0 thrashing of Nzoia Sugar has them clinging to a slender hope of survival, with 31 points in 17th place.
The current standings reflect the precarious positions of these teams:
Shabana – 36 points
Sofapaka – 33 points
Muhoroni Youth – 31 points
Nzoia Sugar – 22 points (already relegated)
Final Day Fixtures and Survival Scenarios
Shabana vs. Muranga Seal
Shabana faces Seal, a team positioned just one spot above them in the standings. With Seal on 38 points and already safe from relegation, Shabana will be determined to secure a win and guarantee their safety. A draw or loss could see them relegated, depending on the results of Sofapaka and Muhoroni Youth.
Sofapaka vs. Nzoia Sugar
Sofapaka will be up against the already relegated Nzoia Sugar. This fixture offers them a prime opportunity to earn three crucial points. A win would elevate them to 36 points, giving them a fighting chance to avoid relegation. However, they must also hope that Shabana does not win their match, as a Shabana victory would render Sofapaka’s efforts futile unless goal difference comes into play.
Muhoroni Youth vs. Posta Rangers
Muhoroni Youth’s final match against Posta Rangers is a must-win encounter. With 31 points, anything less than a victory will see them relegated. Even with a win, their fate is not entirely in their hands. They need both Shabana and Sofapaka to drop points to have any chance of staying up.
Other Key Fixtures
Apart from the relegation battle, other fixtures will also draw interest. KCB vs. Nairobi City Stars, Kenya Police vs. Kariobangi Sharks, and the clash between Tusker and Kakamega Homeboyz are notable matches that could impact the final league standings, particularly in the mid-table positions.
Battle for the Golden Boot
The race for the Golden Boot adds another layer of excitement to the final day. Benson Ochieng of Gor Mahia leads the scoring charts with 17 goals. Hot on his heels are Tito Okello of Kenya Police with 16 goals and John Makwata of Kariobangi Sharks with 15 goals. Erick Kapaito (12 goals) and Austin Odhiambo (12 goals) remain in contention, though they are less likely to catch up unless they have extraordinary performances in their respective matches.
The final day of the FKF Premier League season promises to be a thrilling spectacle as teams battle for survival. Shabana, Sofapaka, and Muhoroni Youth will leave no stone unturned in their quest to avoid relegation.
Fans can expect an intense showdown with every goal, save, and tackle potentially deciding the fate of these clubs. Meanwhile, the battle for the Golden Boot adds a touch of personal glory to the proceedings, ensuring that the 2023-2024 season ends on a high note for players and fans alike.
