KPL title race blown open as Tusker and Police suffer setbacks

The 2024–25 Kenyan Premier League title race was blown wide open on Wednesday, May 14, as both Tusker FC and Police FC dropped crucial points in Matchweek 31—leaving the championship battle finely poised with just three rounds to go.

At Dandora Stadium, Tusker’s momentum took a major hit after a 2–0 defeat to FC Talanta. The match belonged to Emmanuel Osoro, who scored in the 8th minute from the penalty spot and added a second deep into stoppage time (90+4). His brace not only dented Tusker’s title hopes but also brought his season tally to 16 goals, making him joint top scorer in the league.

Meanwhile, at Mumias Complex, league leaders Police FC also stumbled, losing 2–1 to a fired-up Kakamega Homeboyz side. Moses Shumah opened the scoring in the 8th minute, but Police equalised quickly through Mohammed Bajaber in the 14th. The winner came just two minutes after the restart when Glen Otunga fired in a thunderous strike following a clever setup by Ben Saul.

Shumah’s goal took him level with Osoro on 16 goals, keeping him firmly in the race for the Golden Boot. Just behind the duo is Tusker’s Ryan Ogam, who remains on 15 goals—adding another layer of intrigue to the season's closing stages.

It's been a day!

Which results have surprised you? 🤔#FKFPL pic.twitter.com/gDyeU8DN3C

— FKF Premier League (@Officialfkfpl) May 14, 2025

In Kisii, Shabana FC kept their top-four hopes alive with a 2–1 win over Bidco United. Austine Odongo gave the hosts the lead in the 17th minute before Clinton Asiago equalised for Bidco just before halftime. In the second half, a foul on playmaker Keith "The Magician" earned Shabana a penalty, which Brian Michira converted in the 58th minute to seal all three points. Shabana remain fourth on 52 points and are still in the running for a continental slot.

At Ulinzi Complex, Ulinzi Stars and Posta Rangers played out a tense 1–1 draw. Ibrahim Shambi put Ulinzi ahead early after a pinpoint cross from Yakeen Muteheli, but Posta fought back to equalise in the 76th minute. The result leaves Ulinzi on 37 points, while Posta sit just above the relegation zone on 33.

Elsewhere, Mara Sugar and Bandari FC settled for a goalless draw at Awendo Stadium—a result that does little to ease Mara’s relegation worries, as they remain on 32 points. Bandari sit mid-table with 41.

Murang’a SEAL gave their survival hopes a boost with a crucial 2–0 win over Sofapaka at the SportPesa Arena. Goals from Yusuf Ali and Harun Mwale secured the much-needed victory for SEAL, who came into the match in 17th place and under heavy pressure. The result lifts their spirits in the relegation fight, while Sofapaka, stuck on 40 points, saw their top-seven hopes take a hit after a lacklustre outing.

AFC Leopards turned in a commanding performance at Dandora Stadium, defeating Mathare United 3–1 in an entertaining mid-table clash. Kayci Odhiambo capitalised on a goalkeeping error to score in the 31st minute, and four minutes later, Christopher Koloti doubled the lead following a neat build-up involving Brian Wanyama. Despite second-half bookings for Mousa Oundo and Wanyama, Leopards stayed in control. Ronald Shichenje added a third in the 86th minute before Mathare managed a late consolation in stoppage time.

With Police FC on 58 points, Tusker FC on 55, and Shabana FC on 52, the title race is set for a thrilling finish. And with Osoro, Shumah, and Ogam locked in a tight race for the Golden Boot, both individual and team honours remain very much up for grabs as the season nears its climax.