KCB FC kicked off their FKF Premier League campaign with a commanding statement, securing a 2-0 victory over Tusker FC at the Kasarani Stadium on Friday, 19 September.
The win, however, was overshadowed by refereeing controversies after KCB finished much of the second half with a player who had already received two yellow cards.
With a busy transfer window behind them, the Bankers—led by new head coach Robert Matano—relied heavily on their fresh signings to deliver in the opening fixture. Tusker, on the other hand, looked out of sorts and contributed to their own downfall.
Former Gor Mahia winger Boniface Omondi stole the spotlight, netting twice in the first half to propel KCB to the top of the table and underline their title ambitions.
His brace not only secured the points but also highlighted Tusker’s fragile defense, which looked vulnerable throughout the encounter.
FULL TIME in Kasarani. pic.twitter.com/Za1F3uvwCw
— Tusker FC (@tusker_fc) September 19, 2025
After a cagey start under the floodlights, Omondi broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when December Kisakah picked him out at the far post. The 30-year-old struck again just before halftime, capitalizing on a rebound from a long throw to double KCB’s advantage in the 41st minute.
Tusker attempted to regroup, making changes both before and after the break, and thought they had a lifeline in the 57th minute when they were awarded a penalty.
The decision followed an incident in which striker Eric Kapaito fired the ball against defender Nashon Wekesa’s arm.
Wekesa had already been cautioned earlier for a foul on David Polepole, and the handball earned him a second yellow. Yet, to the surprise of many, referee Dickens Mimisa opted against sending him off and instead pointed to the spot.
KCB’s Nashon Wekesa has picked up two yellow cards but remains on the pitch.
KCB FC 2-0 Tusker FC#FootballKE
— Ole Teya (@TeyaKevin) September 19, 2025
There were no protests from either bench, and Kapaito stepped up to take the penalty against his former side. But his attempt went begging as he blasted the ball over Bonphas Munyasa’s crossbar, squandering Tusker’s best chance to turn the game around.
Thomas Omole later had another golden opportunity after latching onto a poor back-pass from Clyde Senaji, but with only the goalkeeper to beat, he failed to convert. That proved to be Tusker’s final meaningful opening.
Despite some late pressure, KCB’s defense stood firm, ensuring the three points were secured.
Still, the controversial refereeing decision is expected to spark debate, with Tusker likely to feel aggrieved over what they will view as a clear case of injustice.