Unrest broke out at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday evening, September 28, 2025, after Kenya Police FC fans clashed with Mogadishu City Club supporters during halftime of their CAF Champions League preliminary round second leg.

The violence came as Kenya Police trailed 1-0 at the break, but tensions had been simmering long before kick-off.

The source of anger could have stemmed from disturbing scenes in the first leg when Mogadishu fans were filmed desecrating the Kenyan flag. Viral videos showed individuals mocking the flag, throwing it on the ground, and kicking it around, sparking outrage both online and offline. Many Kenyans viewed the act as blatant disrespect to a national symbol.

At halftime, emotions boiled over. Witnesses reported heated confrontations. Security personnel rushed in to break up the chaos.

Police advance amid tensions

Despite the tension, the game resumed after the break under heavy security presence. Mogadishu City went on to win 2-0 on the night, levelling the tie at 3-3 on aggregate. Kenya Police FC, however, advanced to the second round on the away goals rule, having won 3-1 in the first leg.

“We proceed to the next stage despite losing the second leg clash,” the team posted on their Facebook account. “We pick lessons and promise to come back stronger.”

The result was a boost for the Kenyan side, but celebrations were overshadowed by the unrest and the wider diplomatic concerns.

During the first fixture, Interior PS Raymond Omollo praised Police FC for their progress but called for discipline among fans.

“Congratulations to Police FC for their victory,” he said. “But we must remember football should unite, not divide.”

Kenya’s National Flag, Emblems and Names Act (Cap. 99) protects the flag from abuse, with penalties including fines or imprisonment. Authorities are now under pressure to identify and punish those involved in the disrespectful acts and the clashes at Nyayo.

What was supposed to be a sporting contest has instead left a bitter taste, highlighting the delicate balance between passion and provocation in football. With Kenya Police FC advancing, attention will now turn to how organisers manage future fixtures to prevent a repeat of Sunday’s ugly scenes.