Record champions Gor Mahia lifted the 2025/26 SportPesa Premier League title for a historic 22nd time, but their coronation party at Nyayo National Stadium ended on a sour note after a 1-0 defeat to Nairobi United on Sunday.
K’Ogalo had hoped to finish the season in style and reach the 72-point mark, but Enock Machaka’s first-half header handed Nairobi United a memorable victory, leaving the champions to conclude their campaign on 69 points.
The result did little to dampen the celebrations of the green-and-white faithful, who had already witnessed Gor Mahia secure the title a week earlier after AFC Leopards’ defeat to APS Bomet officially confirmed K’Ogalo as league winners.
Nairobi United End Dream Debut Season on a High
While the match had no impact on the title race, Nairobi United had every reason to fight for victory. The newcomers arrived at Nyayo determined to finish their impressive maiden top-flight campaign strongly and duly delivered.
Before kickoff, the NaiBois showed respect to the newly crowned champions by giving them a guard of honour. Once the match began, however, they quickly switched into competitive mode.
Nairobi United threatened first in the 11th minute when Paul Ochuoga surged down the right flank and whipped in a dangerous cross, but Ebenezer Assifuah failed to make contact.
The visitors continued to look lively and nearly took the lead through Duncan Omalla, who squandered a golden opportunity from close range.
Machaka’s Header Proves Decisive
The breakthrough eventually arrived four minutes before the half-hour mark. Kevin Otiende initiated a flowing move before finding Omalla, who delivered an excellent volleyed cross from the right. Machaka timed his run perfectly and powered a header past the Gor Mahia defence to give Nairobi United a deserved lead.
That goal ultimately proved to be the difference between the two sides.
Champions Unable to Find Response
Gor Mahia emerged for the second half determined to avoid defeat on their celebration day and pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
However, Nairobi United’s defence stood firm throughout the final 45 minutes, frustrating the champions and ensuring the visitors left Nyayo with all three points.
The victory capped an outstanding debut season for Nairobi United, who secured a fourth-place finish with 53 points and underlined their credentials as one of the league’s rising forces.
