Naivas set for FKF PL promotion playoff after NSL season

Naivas Football Club are set to feature in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKF PL) promotion playoffs, which will decide their fate.

The side finished third in the recently concluded National Super League (NSL) and will now compete against Sofapaka in the promotion playoff games.

Naivas drop

Naivas, who were initially expected to earn promotion to the top tier mid-season, faltered along the way and dropped to third place, allowing Mara Sugar and Mathare United to climb above them and secure direct tickets to the FKF PL.

They accumulated 76 points in the 38 matches played in the second tier, winning 22 matches, drawing 10, and losing 10.

They will be seeking to join Kenya Police on the list of teams that have upset an FKF PL side and qualified for the playoffs. Kenya Police previously beat Vihiga United 1-0 in the second leg of the FKF PL/NSL promotion/relegation playoff played on Sunday, September 19, 2021, at the Utalii Grounds.

Clinton Kinanga scored the decisive goal for Kenya Police in the 32nd minute after converting a penalty that bounced off the crossbar and back to his leg in the area, closing the first-half scores at 1-0.

Kenya Police maintained a strong defence to secure their promotion to the FKF Premier League as the final whistle sealed the scores at 1-0.

Naivas aim

Naivas now aim to emulate this success in their upcoming playoff against Sofapaka. Sofapaka finished 16th in the FKF PL after picking up just 36 points in 34 matches during the campaign, with nine wins, nine draws, and 16 losses.

The stakes are high as Naivas prepares for the crucial match that could elevate them to the FKF PL.