Soy United secure NSL promotion after hard-fought 1-0 win over Bumbani FC
The match came on the back of a Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) ruling that had ordered a replay of Gucha Stars’ match against Nakuru Bucks, overturning Soy United’s earlier automatic promotion.
Soy United clinched a deserved 1–0 victory over Bumbani FC in a tense FKF Division One playoff at Dandora Stadium on Wednesday afternoon, sealing their long-awaited promotion to the National Super League (NSL).
The decisive clash, kicking off at 2:00 pm, carried immense weight as the winner would earn a coveted slot in Kenya’s second-tier league alongside Gucha Stars. It also came on the back of a Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) ruling that had ordered a replay of Gucha Stars’ match against Nakuru Bucks, overturning Soy United’s earlier automatic promotion.
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From the onset, Soy United showed intent, pushing forward with purpose and controlling much of the early play. In the 19th minute, goalkeeper Brian Marani kept Soy safe after clearing a dangerous cross from Bumbani, though his side maintained attacking momentum. Two minutes later, Ambrose Sifuna tried his luck, but his effort was comfortably gathered by the Bumbani goalkeeper.
Soy’s dominance continued midway through the first half as captain Kevin Odira’s well-timed pass nearly set up Alfred Ratolo in the 33rd minute, only for Bumbani’s backline to scramble the ball out for a corner. Moments later, striker Peter “Olunga” Okello — a constant threat — missed a golden opportunity in the 40th minute, firing wide with the goalkeeper beaten.
The first half ended goalless despite Soy’s relentless pressure, with the Bumbani defence hanging on under heavy assault.
After the break, Soy returned with renewed determination. Their efforts were finally rewarded in the 60th minute when Alfred Ratolo latched onto a precise delivery from Okello to slot home the opener, sending the Soy fans into jubilation.
The goal did little to calm the nerves, as Bumbani tried to find a response, but Soy remained composed. Midway through the half, Odira was forced off injured and replaced by Joseph Wafula, who slotted seamlessly into midfield to maintain control.
Ratolo almost doubled the lead in the 75th minute, striking the post after a clever run, while substitute Dennis Shigami later combined beautifully with Clinton Dekah, whose effort was denied by Bumbani’s alert goalkeeper. Soy continued to pile on pressure, with three back-to-back chances in the closing minutes narrowly missing the target.
At the final whistle, Soy United’s bench erupted in celebration — the single goal was enough to crown their tireless campaign with promotion.
After enduring months of uncertainty following the SDT’s intervention, Soy United’s victory not only restores their top-tier ambitions but also stands as a testament to resilience, teamwork, and belief.
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