Soy United is officially back in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) National Super League (NSL) after clinching a hard-fought 1-0 victory over FC Bumbani in the Division One playoff final at Dandora Stadium on Wednesday, October 8th. The win secures the Likuyani-based club a return to the country’s second tier after a near four-year absence.
The solitary goal of the thrilling encounter came in the 50th minute, courtesy of Alfred Ratolo, whose tight-angled shot finally broke Bumbani’s stubborn defence.
The playoff itself marked the conclusion of a three-month-long court battle over the league’s status, finally clearing the way for the promotion of Soy United, who now join Gucha Stars and Kabati Youth in completing the 20-team NSL lineup for the new season.
Match Report: A half of missed chances turns to glory
Soy United dominated the first half in possession and territory, with captain Kevin Odira orchestrating the midfield.
However, their efforts were repeatedly thwarted by poor finishing and a determined Bumbani defence, notably right-back Cheusi, who made a dramatic goal-line block to deny Peter Okello an empty-net tap-in in the 38th minute.
Soy trudged off at halftime visibly frustrated, having failed to convert a string of clear-cut chances.
The second half, however, brought immediate determination. Coach Jeffers Odongo’s tactical substitution, replacing Odira with Joseph Wafula, added renewed impetus.
The breakthrough came just five minutes in: a swift counter-attack saw Peter Okello beat his marker on the right flank before squaring the ball to Ratolo, who controlled it and squeezed the ball past Bumbani goalkeeper Chuma Babu.
Ratolo, now brimming with confidence, nearly doubled the lead minutes later when his fierce shot rattled the woodwork.
Despite Bumbani’s late surge for an equaliser, a composed Soy defence and goalkeeper Shem Marani held firm until the final whistle.
The victory sent Soy’s players and supporters into rapturous celebration, marking a triumphant end to their long fight for NSL status.
