The sports scene in East Africa was electrified this Saturday as football clubs across the region clashed in the CAF League tournament’s preliminary stages. The competition heated up as league champions faced off, promising thrilling encounters that fans eagerly anticipated.
In Nairobi, Kenya, the defending FKF Premier League champions, Kenya Police FC, showcased their dominance against Somalia’s Mogadishu City, clinching a decisive 3-1 victory at the iconic Nyayo National Stadium.
The match saw an early breakthrough for Kenya Police with Erick Zakayo finding the back of the net in the 15th minute. Edward Omondi added to their tally with a well-placed shot in the 57th minute, and substitute David Simiyu sealed the win with a goal in the 70th minute.
Kenya Police FC
Mogadishu City managed to find an equalizer early in the second half, with Isaa Adim Marsis netting in the 49th minute, but it was not enough to turn the tide. The two clubs are set to meet again next week for the second leg, where Kenya Police will aim to secure their advancement with at least a draw.
Further south in Juba, South Sudan, Azam FC delivered a commendable performance, defeating El Merriekh with a 2-0 scoreline at Juba National Stadium. Goals from Fei Toto in the 41st minute and Jeshpte Kitambala in the 81st minute ensured a strong start for Azam FC in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Azam FC Players
Meanwhile, in Kampala, Uganda, National Enterprises Corporation FC (NEC FC) faced a tough battle against Kenya’s Nairobi United, resulting in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Nakivubo Stadium.
Enock Machaka initially gave the visitors a 1-0 lead with a goal in the 28th minute. However, NEC fought back, equalizing in the 80th minute through Cromwell Rwothomio’s set piece.
NEC team – Uganda
A late penalty converted by Paul Mucureezi in the dying moments of regular time had the home crowd roaring, but Nairobi United’s Shami Kibwana silenced the home fans by scoring an equalizer in added time, ending the gripping contest at 2-2. The return leg will take place in Nairobi on September 26, 2025.
In Botswana, Gaborone United met Simba SC in a fiercely competitive first-round matchup of the CAF Champions League. Simba SC, playing away at the Obert Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown, emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win, thanks to Elie Mpanzu’s goal in the 15th minute, allowing them to conclude the first round on a high note.
Singida Black Stars
In a tense and exhilarating CAF Confederation Cup match at the vibrant Kigali Pelé Stadium, Ryon Sports of Rwanda faced off against the visiting Singida Black Stars from Tanzania.
Despite a fiercely contested battle, Ryon Sports fell 1-0, with the atmosphere electric as fans cheered passionately for both teams. The lone goal from Singida Black Stars sealed their victory, leaving Ryon Sports to regroup and recalibrate for their next challenge.
As the first leg of the CAF League preliminary stages comes to a close, fans are left eagerly anticipating the return fixtures, which promise to bring even more excitement and action to the region.
