Bidco United triumphed over fellow FKF Premier League side Kariobangi Sharks to secure the prestigious Elite Pre-Season Cup following a 2-1 on Friday at Kasarani Annex.

Bidco United seized an early advantage in the first half, as a skillfully taken penalty by Chris Ochieng found the back of the net, giving his team a 1-0 lead.

Bidco United lead

The penalty opportunity arose after Kariobangi Sharks’ Timothy Ikhavi was found to have handled the ball within his own 18-yard box.

Undeterred by the setback, Kariobangi Sharks launched a spirited comeback in the second half. Donald Ange capitalized on a defensive lapse by Bidco United to score a well-placed goal, equalizing the score and reigniting the contest.

As the match approached its climax, Bidco United displayed resilience and determination. A twist of fate saw Kariobangi Sharks’ Steve Biko inadvertently turn the ball into his own net, handing Bidco United a dramatic late advantage that would ultimately secure their victory.

Bidco United opponents in Elite Cup

The Elite Pre-Season Cup tournament, a precursor to the upcoming campaign, featured a total of seven teams, including Sofapaka, Posta Rangers, Nairobi City Stars, Rainbow FC, and Kajiado FC.

Absent from the tournament was the defending champions, Police FC, who opted for a pre-season tour to Uganda and Rwanda.

In a preview of the season’s intense competition, Police FC engaged in friendly matches against Singida Fountain, Namungo, and Rayon Sports.

The countdown to the league’s commencement stands at 14 days, with the highly anticipated FKF Charity Cup scheduled to kickstart the action on Saturday.

A clash between Gor Mahia and Kakamega Homeboyz is set to take place at MISC Kasarani Stadium at 3 pm, marking the first competitive match of the season.

Gor Mahia, the reigning 2022/23 FKF-PL champions, will go head-to-head with Kakamega Homeboyz, winners of the 2023 FKF Cup.

Both teams are eager to seize the inaugural title of the season, with a history of close encounters adding to the excitement. Kakamega Homeboyz holds the upper hand from last season, securing two wins out of three matches against Gor Mahia.