Shabana FC secured a crucial 1-0 win over Sofapaka FC at Gusii Stadium on Saturday, January 17, 2026, moving up to third place in the Kenya Premier League standings.

The victory came courtesy of an early goal from Bronson Nsugubo, who scored in the sixth minute to set the tone for the match.

From the start, Shabana controlled the game. Nsugubo capitalised on a well-constructed move from the right wing, weaving through the Sofapaka defence and finishing with a composed strike past goalkeeper Brian Marani. The early lead allowed Shabana to dictate play and maintain pressure on the visitors throughout the first half.

Shabana had several chances to extend their lead. Ezekiah Omuri produced a dangerous run in the 17th minute, rounding the Sofapaka keeper, but defender Stephen Bonnie cleared the ball off the line. Other attempts from Erick Otieno and Obinna were blocked or saved, keeping the scoreline at 1-0 heading into the break.

Sofapaka, struggling in the lower half of the table, offered little in attack in the opening period. Their most notable chance came in the 37th minute when Meshack Otieno headed over the bar from a Joseph Kuloba cross. Shabana goalkeeper Stephen Ochieng made key saves to maintain the clean sheet, giving his team a solid defensive foundation.

Shabana holds firm lead

The second half saw fewer clear opportunities, but Shabana maintained control and discipline. Sofapaka pressed for an equaliser, but their attacks lacked cutting edge.

In the 73rd minute, Japheth Lihanda’s cross found Joseph Kuloba, whose strike was comfortably held by Ochieng. Shabana’s defence, led by Victor Omondi and Wicliffe Omondi, remained organised and rarely allowed the visitors to create meaningful chances.

Coach Peter Okidi made tactical changes during the game, bringing on Justine Omwando and Humphrey Obinna in the second half to keep the team fresh and maintain attacking threats. The substitutions helped Shabana manage the game and preserve their narrow lead until the final whistle.

The win marks Shabana’s fourth positive result at home this season, including a draw against Gor Mahia last weekend. With the three points, Shabana now sit third with 27 points from 17 games, just three behind league leaders Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, who are tied on 30 points.

For Sofapaka, the defeat extends their winless run to nine matches, leaving them in 17th place with only 14 points from 17 games. The team’s struggle to find consistency has seen them lose six matches and draw three in that span, keeping them close to the relegation zone.

Gate collections

Shabana fans contributed to the matchday atmosphere, with ticket sales bringing in a gross revenue of Ksh792,500, and the stadium painted in the team colours of red and white. The strong support highlighted the community’s backing and added energy to the team’s performance.

“We collected a gross revenue of 792,500/= It was great seeing the Stadium painted red and white,” the club posted on their X account.

Shabana will now look to build on this momentum as they continue their campaign, while Sofapaka face mounting pressure to turn their season around.