Sports

Race for Ksh3M FKF Cup down to 4 as Shabana and holders Nairobi United exit

Luke Oluoch 04th May, 2026 07:54 AM

The race for the lucrative Ksh3 million Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Cup prize money has been whittled down to four teams following the quarterfinal clashes over the weekend.

The quarterfinal breakdown

Shabana FC became a surprise casualty of the last eight. The Glamour Boys saw their dreams of a maiden top-flight trophy since returning to the Premier League dashed after a 1-0 defeat to Kenya Police at Gusii Stadium.

An Aboud Omar curling free kick was sufficient to knock the FKF-PL side out of contention.

Division One side Mfalme FC also exited the competition after a fairytale run. The Eldoret-based club, which famously eliminated Murang’a Seal 5-1 in the Round of 16, mounted a spirited fight in their Saturday away duel against Bandari. However, they ended up short after a 5-2 scoreline brought their impressive campaign to a close.

Bandari FC players shushing their rivals after a stunning late win against MSeals. PHOTO/https://www.facebook.com/BandariFootballClub

Sunday’s outings

Sunday’s fixtures continued the trend of upsets as KCB FC, under Robert Matano, bundled out the defending champions, Nairobi United. The 2025 winners—who famously beat Gor Mahia to the trophy while playing in the National Super League—suffered a surprise knockout against the Bankers, ensuring a new winner for the 2026 edition.

Nairobi United had been a standout performer this year. After progressing past L15 FC in the Round of 64, they delivered the most emphatic result of the tournament: an 8-0 victory over BMC Allstars.

Gor Mahia star Samuel Kapen charges forward in the clash against KCB. PHPTO/https://www.facebook.com/GorMahiafcofficial

In the second clash of the day, Tusker FC’s newfound form under French coach Julien Mette took another huge step in the right direction. The Brewers edged out Ulinzi Stars 2-1, sending the Soldiers packing at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.

Road to glory

With Tusker, Bandari, Kenya Police, and KCB as the remaining teams, the pursuit of glory moves to the final, which is set to be played in Kwale. It remains to be seen who will last the mile to secure a spot in continental football and claim the lucrative cash prize.

All four FKF-PL clubs are now assured of a sizeable financial boost, having entered the tournament’s money stage.

Looking ahead, the teams eliminated in the semifinals will contest a third-place playoff for Ksh 1.5 million and Ksh 1 million for third and fourth place.

Semis pairimgs

Police FC vs Bandari FC

KCB FC vs Tusker FC