Newly promoted sides Shabana FC and Murang’a Seal will start their top-tier campaign with matches against Kariobangi Sharks and Kenya Police FC respectively when the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKF-PL) 2023-24 season kicks off on August 26, 2023.
According to the released fixtures, four matches have been lined up on the day according to the fixtures released on Thursday with reigning champions Gor Mahia playing Sofapaka while AFC Leopards will take on FC Talanta on the first day of the season.
Former Champions Tusker, will be away in Mombasa to face Bandari at the Mbaraki grounds while Mozzart Cup winners Kakamega Homeboyz entertain KCB at Bukhungu stadium.
Nzoia Sugar will host Ulinzi while the second day of the season will see Posta Rangers welcome Bidco United as Nairobi City Stars face off against the winner of the promotion playoff pitting Migori Youth against Wazito FC. The first leg of the playoff is set for July 15 with the return leg a week later.
Record local champions Gor Mahia were crowned the winners of the 2022/23 Kenya Premier League after coming from behind to beat Nairobi City Stars 4-1 to lift their 20th title at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani last month.
In what was a hotly contested battle between K’Ogalo and defending Champions Tusker, Jonathan McKinstry needed a win to secure the title which was handed over to them by Football Kenya Federation President Nick Mwendwa, Chief Executive Officer Barry Otieno alongside ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo.
The Brewers who came in second on the other thrashed the relegated Vihiga Bullets by 4-0 at Mumias Sports Complex. The convincing win however couldn’t help them defend the title as they finished on 69 points to settle for second place, a point behind Gor.
Kenya Police FC striker Elvis Rupia who scored in his side’s 2-2 draw with KCB at the Utalii Grounds won the League Golden Boot by a record 27 goals breaking the long-standing record of Maurice Ochieng Sonyi who scored 26 goals for Gor Mahia in 1976.
The former Nzoia Sugar forward surpassed his closest opponent in K’Ogalo firebrand attacker Benson Omala who managed 26 goals having dominated the scoring chart for the better part of the season.
