Posta Rangers close in on survival with playoff win over Naivas
By William Muthama, June 28, 2025Posta Rangers took a giant step toward preserving their FKF Premier League status with a convincing 2-0 victory over Naivas FC in the first leg of the 2024/25 promotion/relegation playoff, played on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.
After a cautious first half, the Mailmen came alive in the second period, with striker Felix Oluoch Mboya netting twice in quick succession, in the 64th and 68th minutes, to give Rangers a clear advantage heading into the decisive return leg.
The result means Rangers only need to avoid defeat by two or more goals in the second leg to maintain their top-flight status for the 2025/26 season.
For Naivas FC, the loss on home soil leaves them needing a big performance in the return fixture to realise their promotion dreams.
Posta Rangers, who finished 16th in the FKF Premier League, showed discipline, experience, and tactical maturity under the guidance of seasoned coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo. Their top-tier pedigree was evident, especially in the second half where they outclassed the NSL side.
Naivas FC, third in the 2024/25 National Super League, entered the playoffs with momentum after a 3-0 win over Nairobi United.
However, coach Elvis Ayany’s men struggled to replicate that energy, finding it difficult to penetrate Rangers’ well-organised backline.
This marks Naivas’ second straight appearance in the playoffs, having lost to Sofapaka last season.
Once again, they find themselves on the back foot ahead of the return leg, scheduled for Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at the Murang’a Arena.
The aggregate winner of the two-legged tie will book a spot in the 2025/26 FKF Premier League, while the loser will compete in the National Super League next season.
With everything to play for in the second leg, Naivas will need a near-perfect performance to overturn the deficit, while Posta Rangers will be hoping to finish the job and retain their place among Kenya’s elite.