Author: News Central

  Rowland Makati of KCB tackling AFC Leopards’ Hassan Beja in their SportPesa Premier match at Ulinzi SportsComplex, Oct 25, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Ten-man Kakamega Homeboyz moved joint top of the SportPesa Premier League after thrashing Ulinzi Stars 3-1 in an entertaining round five match played at Bukhungu Stadium on Saturday. At the same time, newbies APS Bomet registered their first win of the season after stunning hosts Kariobangi Sharks 2-1 at Kasarani Annex, collecting three important points that moved them out of the bottom of the table. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp AFC Leopards joined Bomet in…

Harambee Starlets players celebrate Mwanalima Adam’s goal against Gambia during their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers first leg match at Nyayo Stadium.[Stafford Ondego/Standard] Harambee Starlets are one match away from securing their return to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon). This is after they beat Gambia 3-1 in the first leg match of the third-round qualifiers played on Friday at the Nyayo Stadium.  Despite a shaky start that saw Gambia take an early lead due to a defensive error, the Kenyan girls recovered to thrash the Queen Scorpions and set one foot into the continental championship. With…

Nancy Mokua of My Jobs in Kenya in action during the Standard County Golf Classic at Royal Golf Club, on October 23, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] It was a battle of might and power as hundreds of golfers battled in the Nairobi edition of the exciting Standard County Golf Classic at the par 72 Royal Nairobi Golf Club (RNGC) on Thursday. Some used the tournament to gauge their fitness, others to try their luck on the thrilling prizes that were on offer, while some used the occasion to beef up their social capital through socialisation and networking. The high-profile golf…

Harambee Starlets assistant Coach Jacqueline Akoth during training ahead of their 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier match against Gambia at the Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi, on 23 October 23, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Harambee Starlets will on Friday take on Gambia Queen Scorpions in a 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) third round qualifier match at Nyayo Stadium. Starlets must fire from all cylinders to enhance their chances of securing their return to the African stage. They will be looking to draw the first blood ahead of the return leg set for Tuesday at the Stade…

Caption Kenya and Democratic Republic of Congo lead with the number of boxers in the finals on the penultimate day of the Africa Zone Three Boxing Championships at Kasarani Gymnasium, Nairobi. The hosts have 15 boxers, while defending champions DRC have 17, ahead of Uganda (10) and Tanzania (four) at an event that is being attended by nine out of 14 member countries. Nine of Kenya’s boxers romped into the finals against their opponents, hence increasing their chances of snatching the overall title from DRC. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp They were flyweights Veronica Mbithe, and Diouf Muimi, bantamweight…

Joyce Njuguini (left), Kanana Muthomi and Mercy Nyanchama celebrate after leading the second round of ECAACT at Great Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort in Naivasha, on October 23, 2025. [Mose Sammy, Standard] Kenya refused to yield its ground, maintaining a six-stroke lead after the second round of the East and Central All-Africa Championship Trophy (ECAACT) at the Great Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort on Thursday. However, the hosts cannot afford to be complacent on the eve of the final round, as the resilient Reunion team mounted a serious threat. Kenya finished the second day with a total score…

Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich celebrates after crossing the finish line to win the 2024 Chicago Marathon professional women’s division at Grant Park on October 13, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. [AFP] World record holder in the women’s marathon, Ruth Chepng’etich, has been banned for three years after admitting to anti-doping rule violations, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced on Thursday, October 23. The Kenyan runner, who recently established the world record time of 2:09:56 in Chicago in October 2024, faces the ban despite seeing her historic performances before the positive test documented in the ruling. The AIU had originally sought a four-year…

Umoja Fire Girls celebrate winning the 2025 East Africa Catchball Cup Championship held at the Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere Sports Arena in Kampala, Uganda, on October 18–19. [KCF, Facebook] Kenya emerged as the overall winner at the 2025 East Africa Catchball Cup Championship held at the Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere Sports Arena in Kampala, Uganda, on October 18–19. The tournament, which drew teams from across East Africa, showcased Kenya’s growing dominance in the fast-rising sport. The competition, organised in two categories, Senior (18–36 years) and Most Senior (37–60 years) saw Kenyan teams shine in both. Umoja Fire Girls clinched the Senior Women’s…

Referee Peter Kamaku (second right) lead his team in Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards during FKF Premier League match at the Nyayo National stadium on April 21, 2024. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenya will be represented by four referees at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with a dedicated pre-tournament preparation course set to run ahead of the event. The group includes one centre referee, one Video Assistant Referee (VAR), and two assistant referees. Peter Kamaku Waweru has been named among the centre referees for the tournament. Dickens Mimisa has been selected to operate as a VAR, contributing from the video review…

Team Kenya during a training session at Kasarani. [Ochieng Oyugi, Standard]  Team Kenya has officially entered a residential camp at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi ahead of the 25th Summer Deaflympics set for Tokyo, Japan, on November 15-26. Team captains Isaac Atima and Linet Fwamba Nanjala are buoyant that the squad will surpass the 24 medals achieved in Brazil three years ago in their Tokyo exploits. “Personally, I’m focused on returning home with the elusive gold from Japan,” said Nanjala who bagged silver in the Mix 4x400m Relay, Women’s 4x400m Relay and bronze in the women’s 400m and women’s 4x400m relay in Brazil. Follow…

Harambee Starlets celebrate after scoring in a past match. [Harambee Starlets,X] After weeks of intensive training, Harambee Starlets are now tying up loose ends ahead of tomorrow’s Women Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) qualifier against Gambia. The Kenyans, who are looking to secure their return to the continental stage after many years in the cold, will clash with the Queen Scorpions in the first leg of their third-round qualifiers match at Nyayo Stadium. The return leg will be played on Tuesday at the Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal. The aggregate winner will book their ticket to the 2026 Wafcon…

John Lejirma in action at the 98th edition of the Coronation Trophy at the Nakuru Golf Club [Mose Sammy, Standard] The Standard County Golf Classic, Nairobi edition, tees off at the par 72 Royal Nairobi Golf Club (RNGC) this morning with over 250 players battling for glory. The high-profile golf showpiece, sponsored by Eka Hotel Nairobi, is themed ‘On the green course, for the green course. Tee off for action against climate change and make the day count’. The first batch of players are expected to tee off at 7am, with hundreds of others to follow on their toes as they comb…

Reunions captain Melliyal Schmitt in action during the East and Central All-Africa Championship Trophy at the Great Rift Valley Golf Resort in Naivasha, Nakuru, on October 22, 2025. [Mose Sammy, Standard] The opening round of the seventh edition of the East and Central All-Africa Champions Trophy concluded yesterday, with hosts Kenya seizing the early lead in the team segment, finishing the day at nine-over-par. This impressive start places them one stroke ahead of Reunion, which currently sits in second place at 10-over. Defending champions Tanzania rounded out the top three, settling for a 13-over-par score. The tournament, which features three-player…

Kenya’s Elizabeth Andiego (left) in action against Joelle Marie Mwika of Democratic Republic of Congo last year. [File, Standard]  Captain Elizabeth Adhiambo Andiego restored hope  in the Kenyan camp after romping into the finals of the ongoing Africa Zone Three Boxing Championships at Kasarani Indoor Arena in Nairobi on Tuesday evening.   It took Andiego one minute and 52 seconds to beat Salma Changirawi of Tanzania in the middleweight semi-final bout to display the confidence she had when entering the ring. She beat her opponent when the referee stopped the contest (RSC) to save the Tanzanian female boxer from further punishment…

World Silver medalist Daniel Ebenyo Simiu in action during the 3rd edition of the Sirikwa Classic World Cross Country Tour event at the Lobo village, Eldoret on February 03, 2024. [File, Standard] When the national cross country is staged in Eldoret, a number of things stand out, but most importantly, the City of Champions comes alive. This Saturday, the Cathedral of distance running is once again hosting what is expected to be an electrifying cross country action. In February, the city staged the 2025 national cross-country at the Eldoret Sports Club, and it is set to host the country’s big…

English manager Sean Dyche gestures on the touchline during a past match between Manchester United and Everton at Old Trafford. [File, AFP] Nottingham Forest will be hoping it is third time lucky as new manager Sean Dyche takes over the reins of the two-time European Champions for the visit of Porto in the Europa League on Thursday. Dyche, already Forest’s third boss of a turbulent season, has arrived at the City Ground to take charge of a side seeking their first win in the competition after garnering just one point from their two previous outings. Appointed on Tuesday to replace…

FC Barcelona training at the Joan Gamper Sports City before the UEFA Champions League match against PSG in Barcelona, Spain, on September 30, 2025. [Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto] La Liga’s plan to hold a Barcelona match in Miami in December has been called off because of “uncertainty” about the game within Spain, the Spanish top flight said in a statement Tuesday. Champions Barca were set to face Villarreal in the United States on December 20, which would have been the first European league fixture to be played abroad. La Liga said their promoter for the match decided to cancel the organisation of…

Benfica’s Portuguese head coach Jose Mourinho gestures on the touchline during the Champions League match vs Newcastle United at St James’ Park on October 21, 2025. [ANDY BUCHANAN / AFP] Harvey Barnes scored twice after coming off the bench to help Newcastle inflict more Champions League pain on Jose Mourinho’s Benfica with a 3-0 win at St. James’ Park. Anthony Gordon fired the Magpies in front as Benfica remain without a point in Europe’s elite competition this season. Winger Barnes was introduced just after the hour mark and made a massive impact with two composed right-footed finishes to put Newcastle…

Arsenal celebrate after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Champions League football match vs Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium in north London on October 21, 2025. [ Ben STANSALL / AFP] Viktor Gyokeres scored twice to end a nine-game goal drought in Arsenal’s second half demolition of Atletico Madrid as a 4-0 win extended the Gunners’ perfect Champions League start on Tuesday. Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli opened the floodgates before Gyokeres’ double, with all the goals coming in a 13-minute spell either side of the hour mark. The Premier League leaders are also sitting pretty alongside last…

Arsenal’s Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhaes (L) celebrates with Declan Rice (R) after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Champions League football match vs Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium in north London on October 21, 2025. [Ben STANSALL / AFP] Paris Saint-Germain scored seven and both Barcelona and PSV Eindhoven hit six in big victories while Arsenal crushed Atletico Madrid 4-0 on a prolific night of Champions League action on Tuesday. Erling Haaland was among the scorers in Manchester City’s 2-0 win at Villarreal as a total of 43 goals rained down across nine games. However, it was champions…

Anika Patel in action during 2024 Standard County Golf Classic Series at the par 71 Eldoret Club in Uasin Gishu County. [File, Standard] The Standard County Golf Classic, Nairobi edition, heads to Royal Nairobi Golf Club (RNGC) tomorrow with over 250 players expected to chase glory in the exciting golf event. Eka Hotel Nairobi is among the partners who have come on board to be part of the thrilling golf showpiece themed ‘On the green course, for the green course. Tee off for action against climate change and make the day count’. Nairobi edition of the series comes after the…

Toulon’s Italian fly-half Paolo Garbisi is tackled by Racing 92′ New Zealand center Joey Manu during the French Top 14 rugby union match at Stade Mayol in Toulon, France, on October 19, 2025. [AFP] Gregor Townsend insists his decision to take on an advisory role with Red Bull will help “energise” rather than distract him from his main job of coaching the Scotland national rugby team. After extending his Scotland contract until the 2027 Rugby World Cup, it emerged earlier this month the long-serving Townsend will be spending 30 days a year working on Red Bull’s global rugby strategy in…

Kenya’s Situs Onyango (right) and Abel Alemu of Ethiopia during the Africa Zone Three Boxing Championship at Kasarani Gymnasium on Monday. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenya made a formidable comeback after a false start when several boxers won their matches to keep hope of lifting the overall title on Day 1 of the Africa Zone Three Boxing Championships at Kasarani Gymnasium. In the opening matches, Kenya had registered five consecutive losses, a development that sent shockwaves through the forthcoming matches. It was welterweight Wiseman Kavondo who returned hope to the camp with a split-point win over Cameroonian Oumarou Mouhammed to book…

Paris Saint-Germain’s French forward #10 Ousmane Dembele kicks a ball during a training session ahead of the UEFA Champions League final football match at the club training camp in Poissy, west of Paris, on May 21, 2025. [AFP] Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele is in line to make his return from injury for Paris Saint Germain against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, a source close to the club told AFP  yesterday. The news will come as a welcome boost for PSG coach Luis Enrique, whose side has been struggling with injuries this season. Dembele, 28, has been out for six weeks with a hamstring problem he suffered on international duty with…

Atletico Madrid’s English midfielder #04 Conor Gallagher takes part in a training session at the Emirates Stadium in London, on October 20, 2025, on the eve of their UEFA Champions League league phase football match against Arsenal. [AFP] Julian Alvarez has established himself as Atletico Madrid’s key player but the club still need to prove to the Argentina international they belong among Europe’s elite and can fulfil his ambitions. The Rojiblancos visit to last season’s semi-finalists Arsenal in the Champions League on Tuesday is a fine opportunity to test their mettle. Diego Simeone’s side are unbeaten in six games across…

Manchester United’s English defender #05 Harry Maguire reacts after the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on October 19, 2025. [AFP] Ruben Amorim said a first victory at Anfield since 2016 was just reward for Manchester United’s long suffering fans after Harry Maguire’s late winner inflicted a fourth consecutive defeat on Liverpool. The 2-1 win ensured that United earned theirs first back-to-back victories in the Premier League since Amorim took charge nearly a year ago. But the Portuguese coach said that how his players respond next weekend when Brighton…

Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James in action against the New Orleans Pelicans. [AFP] Past and future converge for the Los Angeles Lakers this season as LeBron James and Luka Doncic embark on their first full NBA campaign chasing a title that could cement one legacy and launch another. James, a four-time NBA champion and the league’s all-time leading scorer, heads into an unprecedented 23rd season admitting time is winding down on his glittering career. It’s Doncic who will be key to whether James is contending for a title in what could be his final season. The 26-year-old Slovenian star was immediately installed as the face of the franchise going  forward when the Lakers acquired him in a…

Kevin Durant #7 and Alperen Sengun #28 of the Houston Rockets look on from the bench against the Atlanta Hawks during the third quarter at State Farm Arena on October 16, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. [AFP] NBA superstar Kevin Durant has agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $90 million with the Houston Rockets, according to multiple reports on Sunday. The 37-year-old American forward, a two-time NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, will own the NBA record for highest career earnings at $598.2 million, overtaking LeBron James’s $583.9 million. Durant joined his fifth NBA club when the Phoenix Suns…

Red Bull Racing’s Dutch driver Max Verstappen hoists the trophy on the podium after winning the United States Formula One Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, on October 19, 2025. [AFP] Max Verstappen made it clear that he is chasing a spectacular fifth world title after reeling off his third win in four races with a masterclass in Sunday’s sizzling United States Grand Prix. After avoiding direct comment on the championship for several weeks, Red Bull’s four-time champion said he felt sure he now has a real chance of snatching the title from the grasp of McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Boosted by cutting Piastri’s advantage to 40 points with…

Nairobi United’s Ovella Ochieng (left) and Charles Waibi of NEC FC from Uganda in CAF Confederation Cup match at Nyayo National Stadium on Sept 27, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenyan football clubs Kenya Police and Nairobi United experienced mixed fortunes in the CAF inter-club campaigns over the weekend, with Police stumbling at home in the Champions League, while Nairobi United took a major step towards history in the Confederation Cup. At the Ulinzi Sports Complex on Friday, Kenyan champions Kenya Police were stunned 1-0 by Sudan’s Al Hilal Omdurman in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round first leg. The…

Kenya’s Situs Onyango (right) and Abel Alemu of Ethiopia battle during the Africa Zone 3 Boxing Championship at Moi International Sports Center Gymnasium, Nairobi, on October 20, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] It was a false start for Kenyan boxers on the first day of the Africa Zone Three Boxing Championships when five of its boxers lost their opening matches at Kasarani Indoor Arena in Nairobi on Sunday evening. They were bantamweights Shaffi Bakari (54kg) and Emmanuel Chondo, welterweights (63.5-67kg) Washington Wandera and Joseph Shigali and lightweight (60kg) Ethan Maina. Bakari who’s the bantamweight defending champion was beaten 4-1 by Aime…

Francis Kioni emerged victorious in a thrilling final to become the champion of Rift Valley Matchplay Championship. [Sammy Mose, Standard] Francis Kioni emerged victorious in a thrilling final to become the champion of the recently restored 95-year-old Rift Valley Matchplay Championship, once a signature event at the Nakuru Golf Club, on Saturday. The intense showdown was the main event during the Mashujaa Charity Shield Golf Tournament, which raised over Sh660,000 to support the Love and Hope Center, a home dedicated to caring for the sick and needy. Kioni’s hard-fought win against his formidable opponent in the final, Esto Gentral in…

Kenya’s Ibrahim Lea competes in the 13-14yrs Girls’ breaststroke category during the 10th Africa Aquatics Zone 3 Swimming Championship at Kasarani Aquatic Stadium. Oct 17, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenyans will make their final push for medals at the 2026 Africa Aquatics Zone Three Swimming Championship that ends today at Kasarani Aquatic Stadium. Having set out to snatch the overall title from neighbours Uganda, they will be out to excel and bag more medals amid stiff competition from the latter and Tanzania, who have also had a good outing from day one. The three countries have been engaged in a…

Africa Zone Three Boxing Championships light heavyweight gold medalist Elizabeth Andiego (in red) lands a jab on Elif Guneri of Turkey at the World Women Boxing Championships in Istanbul, Turkey last month.[Courtesy] Kenyan boxers are ready for the battle royale in their burning ambition to win the overall title in the Africa Zone Three Boxing Championships. As the event boxes off today, the boxers are very keen that it will not be a walk in the park in the competition despite taking on opponents at their backyard. Kenyan captain and the reigning Zone Three heavyweight champion Elizabeth Andiego has asked…

Diana Wacera celebrates after scoring for Kenya in their 4-0 win over Uganda at the ongoing CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship in Tanzania. [Harambee Starlets,X] With just seven days left before Kenya battle Gambia for a ticket to the 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon), Harambee Starlets have stepped up preparation in readiness for the first leg duel set for next Friday at Nyayo Stadium. Starlets who are seeking to return to the continental stage after many years in the cold will have to beat the Gambians in the third and final round of qualifiers. The two-legged tussle will see…

Swimmers in action during the 2025 Africa Aquatics Zone Three Swimming Championship at Kasarani Aquatic Stadium, Nairobi, on October 16, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenyans had a good start despite facing stiff competition from their guests as this year’s Africa Aquatics Zone Three Swimming Championship got underway on Thursday at the Kasarani Aquatic Stadium. Defending champions Uganda and Tanzania, who finished second during last year’s championship, made their intentions to extend their dominance known with impressive performances during the morning session. However, the afternoon events were halted due to tensions at Kasarani Stadium that erupted following the body viewing of…

Amason Sampao crosses the finish line to win the men’s 5,000m during the BingwaFest national finals in Siaya. [Courtesy]  Asbel Kiprop and Amason Sampao will be the centre of attraction on Friday as the athletics programme of the Betika BingwaFest Season Two lights up Machakos County. The two stars are set to renew their rivalry in the 5,000m and 10,000m races at Kenyatta Stadium, where more than 400 athletes are competing for a share of the Sh6 million prize pool. Last year, Kiprop won the 10,000m title, while Sampao triumphed in the 5,000m before going on to clinch the national…

Kenya Police Alyn Mangeni (left) in action against Mogadishu City’s Hassan Adan during the 2025/2026 CAF Champions League campaign at Nyayo National Stadium, on September 20, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Confusion surrounds Kenya Police chase for history in the CAF Champions League tie against Sudanese giants Al Hilal Omdurman following uncertainty over the venue, as the nation continues to mourn the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The match, originally set for today at Nyayo Stadium from 3pm, has been thrown into doubt after the government confirmed that Raila’s national funeral mass will take place at Nyayo. The situation…

Students taking part in Nairobi Mini Games at Urafiki Carovana Schools Kahawa on October 11, 2025. [Mike Kihaki, Standard] The sixth edition of the Nairobi Mini Games, held at Urafiki Carovana School, brought together children from 25 schools across the city in a colorful display of talent, teamwork, and creativity. The annual tournament, which has grown to become one of Nairobi’s most inclusive sporting and talent development events, is redefining how schools nurture children’s potential beyond academics. The Nairobi Mini Games 2025 featured an impressive mix of disciplines from traditional sports like soccer, swimming, taekwondo, and basketball to emerging fields…

Harambee Stars head coach Benni MacCarthy during training session at Police Sacco on August 16, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Stafford] Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy believes Kenya must continue building and learning if they are to compete with Africa’s top football nations after another poor show in the World Cup qualifiers. Speaking after Kenya’s 3-0 defeat to Ivory Coast in the final Group F match on Tuesday night, McCarthy admitted that Harambee Stars are not in the same level with African champions Ivory Coast. “You look at the quality of players Ivory Coast have — all internationals playing for top European clubs — while…

Raila Amolo Odinga will be remembered not only for his towering political legacy but also for his lifelong love for football [Raila, Facebook] Kenya is mourning the loss of one of its most passionate sports lovers. Long-serving Gor Mahia patron Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away this morning, will be remembered not only for his towering political legacy but also for his lifelong love for football. /* New modal style */ .fade-out-container { position: relative; background: none; top: -95px; padding: 4rem 0rem 2rem; text-align: center; } .fade-out-overlay { position: absolute; top: -40px; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 60px; z-index: 1;…

Gor Mahia captain Jerry Onyango with CORD leader Raila odinga with the celebrating their win, lifting the Kenya Premier league trophy [Collins Oduor, Standard] When news broke today that Raila Odinga had died in India, Kenya went into mourning. /* New modal style */ .fade-out-container { position: relative; background: none; top: -95px; padding: 4rem 0rem 2rem; text-align: center; } .fade-out-overlay { position: absolute; top: -40px; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 60px; z-index: 1; background: linear-gradient(to bottom, rgba(255, 255, 255, 0), rgba(255, 255, 255, 1)); } .subscribe-content { position: relative; z-index: 2; padding: 20px; background: #ffffff; top: -55px; } .subscribe-content h1 { font-size: 2rem;…

Senegal’s forward Sadio Mane (C) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Africa qualifiers Group B match between Senegal and Mauritania at the Stade Abdoulaye Wade, in Diamniadio, on October 14, 2025. [Patrick Meinhardt / AFP] South Africa, Ivory Coast and Senegal all won convincingly on Tuesday to fill the last three automatic places reserved for Africa at the 2026 World Cup. Senegal were the most impressive winners, hammering Mauritania 4-0, while Ivory Coast beat Kenya 3-0 and South Africa were also 3-0 winners, against Rwanda. The trio will join Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt,…

Harambee Stars winger Wilson Lenkupae challenged by Ivory Coast midfielder Ibrahima Sangare during their 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium in Abidjan [Cote d’Ivoire]  Ivory Coast last night booked their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada with a commanding 3-0 victory over Kenya in their final Group F clash on Tuesday at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium in Abidjan. The result secured the reigning AFCON champions’ return to the world stage after missing out on Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022. The Ivorians wasted no time…

Beatrice Chebet (left) and Faith Kipyegon celebrate after winning gold and silver medals in the 5000m final at the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 2025 on September 20. [AFP]  After a spectacular track season, time to honour athletics stars who stormed to stunning victories this year kicks off in earnest. Kenya’s decorated track stars oozed class and cemented the country’s legacy as an athletics powerhouse. Their medals, especially at the 2025 Tokyo World Championships from September 13 to 21, further raised Kenya’s profile at the global arena, as they ranked second internationally behind the USA. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp…

Kenyan boxer Lorna Kusa in a past training session. [File]  Lack of knowledge of opponents Kenyan boxers will face at the Africa Zone Three Boxing Championships has given them anxious moments before the event boxes off tomorrow in Nairobi. And it could spread to doom their ambition of lifting the overall title. /* New modal style */ .fade-out-container { position: relative; background: none; top: -95px; padding: 4rem 0rem 2rem; text-align: center; } .fade-out-overlay { position: absolute; top: -40px; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 60px; z-index: 1; background: linear-gradient(to bottom, rgba(255, 255, 255, 0), rgba(255, 255, 255, 1)); } .subscribe-content {…

Harambee Stars’ Daniel Sakari, Marvin Nabwire and Austin Odhiambo arrive for a training session at the Police Sacco Grounds ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match and travel to Abidjan to take on Ivory Coast next Tuesday. Oct 6, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenya’s Harambee Stars will be out to spoil Ivory Coast’s World Cup dream when they clash in the final Group F match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers tonight at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium in Abidjan from 10pm. Although Kenya are already out of the race for a ticket to next year’s global football showpiece in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, they…

Vincent Onyala (with ball) of Kenya Shujaa scores past Shogun players during their 2025 Safari Sevens finals at Nyayo National Stadium on October 12, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Shujaa are full of confidence as they prepare for the 2025-2026 World Rugby Sevens Series Division Two after successfully defending the Safari Sevens title. In front of their home fans, Kenya Sevens fought hard to retain the crown, displaying the never say die spirit synonymous with the Shujaa. Assistant captain Samuel Asati, who was later named Player of the Final, played a key role in their triumph. The KCB scrum-half’s quick decision-making and calm control of the game proved vital in the crucial moments,  guiding Shujaa through tight situations in…

Cedric Konzolo in action during the KCB East Africa Golf Tour at the nine-hole, Kakamega Sports Club, October 11, 2025. [Mose Sammy, Standard] The powerhouse team of Jack Songwa, Allan Muhando, Cedric Konzolo and Julius Oketch put up a masterclass of synergy and skill and conquered the highly competitive KCB East Africa Golf Tour team title at the Kakamega Sports Club over the weekend. Their combined score of 112 stableford points was enough to edge out their closest rivals in a nail-biting finish. Trailing by a single point, the formidable squad of Victor Muhando, Phabian Isese, Jimmy Akhonya, and Emmanuel…

Kenya one John Lejirma celebrates after winning the Nyanza Hippo Pot at Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu on October 12. [Washington Onyango,Standard] Royal Nairobi Golf Club’s John Lejirma has announced plans to switch to the professional ranks after winning his third Hippo Pot title at the Nyanza Golf Club with a 1-under-209 on Sunday. Lejirma revealed that his transition to the paid ranks will follow the conclusion of the 2026 Magical Kenya Open. The timeline allows him a full season to compete against top regional amateur talent before leaping into the pro ranks. The announcement comes amidst a period of strong form and renewed professional opportunities in Kenyan golf. Follow The Standard…

Light heavyweight boxer Edwin Okong’o during the team’s training session at Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani in Nairobi on August 6, 2019. [File, Standard] Africa Zone Three Boxing Championships boxes off in Nairobi tomorrow with Kenyan boxers seeking to make home fans happy. The boxers know the task ahead of them is not easy, but they have a chance to win the overall title from the defending champions Democratic Republic of Congo, which was the first country to arrive in Nairobi.  “We are going there (Africa Zone Three) for serious business and as we had earlier indicated, the overall title must remain in Nairobi,” said Africa Games middleweight gold medallist Edwin Okong’o. Okong’o is among the…

Caren Chebet celebrates after winning the 2025 Betika Cross Country in Kericho County on October 11, 2025. [Courtesy] Victor Kimosop and Caren Chebet are the winners of the 2025 Betika Cross Country meeting held in Kericho County over the weekend. Kimosop won the senior men’s 10km category held at Kericho Teachers Training College course with a thrilling victory in 29:39:85, edging out second placed Charles Kaguri (29:41:95) and third placed Mathew Kipruto (29:47:88) in a breathtaking sprint finish. In the fiercely contested senior women’s 10km race, Chebet delivered a dominant performance, crossing the line in 33:27:63, ahead of Abigael Chepkoech…

From right: Former Makini Schools Academic Director Angelica Ouya, Principal of Makini School Kisumu and Migosi Joshua Ngira, Sports prefect Jordan Kutwa, and Head of Sports Makini School Kisumu Evans Were display a trophy after the swimming tournament at the school on October 10, 2025. [Courtesy] Makini School Kisumu hosted an exciting inter-school swimming tournament that brought together young swimmers from across the region over the weekend. The event organised in collaboration with the Kisumu Aquatic Association and which featured competitions across multiple categories marked the official launch of the school’s newly constructed swimming pool, measuring 25m by 17m. Learners…

John Lejirma after winning the 2025 Nyanza Hippo Pot at Nyanza Golf Club on October 12, 2025. [ Washington Onyango, Standard] Royal Nairobi Golf Club’s John Lejirima was crowned the 2025 NCBA Nyanza Open Hippo Pot champion on Sunday after posting an impressive three-round total of 209, finishing one under par at the Nyanza Golf Club course in Kisumu. Lejirima held his nerve over three days of challenging golf to edge out William Odeke from Nyali Golf and Country Club by just one shot. Odeke finished level par with a total of 210, while John Koina from Muthaiga Golf Club…

 Zipporah Gichigi the overall winner of the 2025 I&N Partners’ Classic Golf Tournament receives the trophy from Leonard Makasi, Marketing Manager Alliance Development at Sigona Golf Club on October 11, 2025. [Courtesy] Zipporah Gichigi emerged the overall winner of the Igeria & Ngugi Partners Classic held on Saturday at the Sigona Golf Club. Gichigi posted an impressive 40 points to claim the top prize in a highly competitive field. The event, which attracted top golfers from around the region, saw players battle tough fairways and windy conditions, but Gichigi’s consistency proved decisive. Speaking after her victory, a delighted Gichigi said her…

Kakamega Lady captain Beatrice Oduor awards Kakamega Ladies Open champion Doris Mideva (centre) flanked by KLGU chair Rosemary Mkok. [Washington Onyango, Standard] Golf Park’s junior sensation Doris Mideva stole the show at the 2025 Kakamega Ladies Open after emerging the overall gross winner with an impressive score of 87 gross. The talented young golfer defied the odds to beat a strong field of 64 players from 11 clubs across the country. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp Mideva, playing off handicap 8, said she was surprised by her performance but credited focus and discipline for her victory. “I didn’t expect…

Kenya’s Megan Irungu wins the Elite Women category during the 2025 Africa Triathlon and Duathlon Cup in Kilifi on October 11, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Under the blazing Kilifi sun and humid coastal winds, Kenya turned endurance into artistry as Joseph Okal led a home sweep at the Africa Duathlon Cup in Kilifi on Saturday. Okal powered to gold in a performance that symbolised not just personal triumph but the steady rise of Kenya as a continental force in multi-sport racing. Clocking 1:03:14, Okal looked composed and deliberate, his every stride and pedal stroke reflecting months of focus on transitions…

Mombasa golfer Lumatete Muchai in action during the Sweet Banana golf tournament at Nyali Golf and Country Club course on October 10, 2025. [Maarufu Mohamed, Standard] Mombasa lawyer Lumatete Walubengo Muchai came out blazing through the fairways to emerge the overall winner of the 2025 Sweet Banana golf tournament played at the par 71 Nyali Golf and Country Club course in Mombasa on Friday. The handicap 19 player whose game has been low over the past months this time rose above all odds by recording the day’s best brilliant score of 44 stableford points to clinch the top prize, beating…

Kenya’s Praxides Anyango (right) punches Flora Machela of Tanzania during their PST women’s super-featherweight title bout at the Edge Convention Centre in Nairobi on October 10, 2025. [UFS BX] Flawless Kenyan queen Praxides Anyango edged Flora Machela of Tanzania 100-90, 99-91, and 100-90 to successfully defend her Pugilist Syndicate of Tanzania (PST) women’s super-featherweight crown at the Edge Convention Centre in Nairobi on Friday night. Peerless Congolese hard hitter Lucien ‘Bam Bam’ Botumbe also danced his way to glory in the seven-bout card night promoted by Maurice Odera of UFS BXNG. He outpointed former Ugandan policeman Kenneth Lukyamuzi 98-92, 100-90,…

Faith Kipyegon of Kenya celebrates after winning the mile race during ATHLOS NYC25 on October 10, 2025 at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island in New York City. [AFP] For the second year in a row, multiple Olympic and world champion Faith Kipyegon is kicking off her holiday after a brilliant show in New York City. After a busy track season, the 1500m Greatest of All Time (GOAT) was crowned Athlos New York City (Athlos NYC) Mile champion yesterday morning (Kenyan time). With a heartwarming crowning by tennis legend, four-time Olympic champion Serena Williams, Kipyegon’s season ended in a spectacular fashion.…

Faheem Juma (left) of Umoja Basketball tussles for the ball with Brans Mutiso of Ulinzi Warriors during their East Africa Basketball Championships Cup finals at Nyayo National Stadium on October 09, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Kenyans will have to wait for another year to try and win the coveted East Africa Basketball Championship Cup (EABCC) trophy. This is after they failed to achieve the feat for a second year in a row, as the 2025 edition of the tournament that brings together teams from Zone Five ended at Nyayo Gymnasium. Kenya’s hopes of bagging the title crashed as former Kenya…

Scribot Mahe (down) of UK Select in action against Kenya’s Shujaa during the 2025 Safari Sevens at Nyayo Stadium on October 11, 2025. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Defending champion Shujaa, Kenya Morans and KCB all booked their quarterfinal places in the Safari Sevens that ends today at Nyayo Stadium after registering positive results during the preliminary stages. Kenya Sevens began their title defence yesterday with a commanding 55-0 win over Uganda National Sevens Champions, Walukuba, in a match that was postponed on Friday due to floodlight issues at the venue. Kevin Wekesa, George Ooro and Gabriel Ayimba each scored a brace…

Cricket Kenya chairman Manoj Patel. [File, Standard] The Sports Disputes Tribunal has issued sweeping orders against two besieged Cricket Kenya officials, effectively locking them out of the federation’s affairs. Coming only days after grilling by detectives over Sh26.7 million alleged financial scandal and a vote of no confidence by the majority board, Chairman Manoj Patel and Acting Treasurer Kennedy Otieno Obuya have now been barred even from accessing federation offices. “…the respondents [Obuya and Manoj] are specifically restrained from accessing, entering, or otherwise interfering with the 8th Claimant’s operations and office,” the order states. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp…

Faith Kipyegon celebrates after winning the mile race during ATHLOS NYC25 on October 10, 2025 at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island in New York City. [AFP] For the second year in a row, multiple Olympic and world champion Faith Kipyegon is kicking off her holiday after a brilliant show in New York City. After a busy track season, the 1500m Greatest of All Time (GOAT) was crowned Athlos New York City (Athlos NYC) Mile champion yesterday morning (Kenyan time). With a heartwarming crowning by tennis legend, four-time Olympic champion Serena Williams, Kipyegon’s season ended in a spectacular fashion. The three-time Olympic champion, who is…

Nyanza Golf Club lady captain Lina Akello follows her swing during the Nyanza Ladies Open tournament in Kisumu. [Washington Onyango, Standard] Benta Khanili produced a brilliant performance to win the 2025 Nyanza Ladies Open Golf Championship held at the Nyanza Golf Club. Khanili, who shot an impressive 88 gross, topped a strong field of over 100 golfers to claim the overall title in what was her first-ever appearance at the Nyanza course. The event attracted golfers from across the Western region, including Kisii, Nandi Bears, Kericho, and Kakamega, as well as players from Golf Park, Ruiru, and Muthaiga clubs. Follow…

Nelson Mandela Cup middleweight gold medallist Elizabeth Andiego (in red) exchanges puches with two time African champion Rady Adosalinda Gramane in the finals of Nelson Mandela Cup at Durban Convention Centre in Durban on April 21, 2024.[FILE,Standard] The overall title for the Africa Zone Three Championships will not leave Nairobi, Kenyan boxers have vowed. As was in 1987, when Kenya hosted the All Africa Games in Nairobi and subsequently won the overall boxing title, the Kenyan boxers promised to follow suit at the regional championships set to be hosted in the country for the first time. Team captain and the…

Kenyan athletes during Friday`s training in Kilifi ahead of the 2025 Africa Triathlon and Duathlon Cup. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenya’s coast will once again turn into a stage of endurance and grit as the country hosts the seventh edition of the Africa Duathlon and Triathlon Cup this weekend in Kilifi.  The entries are drawn from 12 countries, including hosts Kenya, Japan, Germany, Venezuela, Morocco, Mauritius, Austria, Hungary, Israel, Tanzania, Singapore, and Central African Republic. For Team Kenya, a 20-member squad comprising elite, junior, and age-group athletes will represent the country in the two-day meet scheduled for today and tomorrow. The events…

Nairobi Gymkhana Cricket Club proprietor Bhavesh Gohil during a media engagement in Nairobi. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]  For ages, Bhavesh Gohil aka BG, has always been a strong supporter of the national cricket teams, the players, and the whole ecosystem of the sport. His recent philanthropic act was bailing out the men’s national team that recently took part in the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers that concluded in Zimbabwe last week. He sorted the squad in terms of allowances. The business magnate is also the force behind the rise and rise of the Nairobi Gymkhana Cricket Club that plies trade in…

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy in Bujumbura, Burundi. [Courtesy]  Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has praised his team’s resilience after they battled to a narrow 1-0 victory over 10-man Burundi in a Group F 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match on Thursday evening in Bujumbura. Kenya’s winning goal came in the second half through substitute Ryan Ogam, whose calm finish settled a bruising contest at the Intwari Stadium. But while the three points were welcome, McCarthy admitted the match was one of the most physically demanding his side has faced in the qualifiers. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp “It was…

Harambee Stars striker Ryan Ogam (left) celebrates after scoring a goal during their 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match against Burundi at Intwari Stadium in Bujumbura, Burundi, on October 9, 2025. [FKF Media]   Ryan Ogam came off the bench to score the winner as Harambee Stars edged out 10-man Burundi 1-0 in their 2026 Fifa World Cup Qualifiers, Group F match, played at the Intwari Stadium in Bujumbura on Thursday. The Wolfsberger AC striker made an instant impact eight minutes into the match, scoring in the 73rd minute to hand Kenya a much-needed win in a tightly contested encounter as they…

Egypt’s forward #10 Mohamed Salah reacts after loosing the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Africa qualifier football match between Djibouti and Egypt at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on October 8, 2025. [AFP] Liverpool star Mohamed Salah scored twice to help Egypt beat Djibouti 3-0 in Casablanca on Wednesday and qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The 33-year-old has now netted nine times in a marathon qualifying campaign that began two years ago, and victory for Egypt gave them an unassailable five-point lead over Burkina Faso in Group A. Twice African Footballer of the Year, Salah helped Liverpool…

Kenya Lionesses’ Janet Okello in action against South Africa during their Group D match of the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series at Estadio Santa Laura, Chile on August 12 2022.[Courtesy] Kenya Lionesses, have named their squad for the 27th edition of the Safari Sevens, with star player Janet Okello making a long-awaited return to the side. The tournament will take place this weekend at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. Acting head coach Simon Odongo has selected a 12-player team which is a mix of experience and fresh faces as Kenya aims to bounce back from last year’s disappointment. The…

Victor Mola of Strathmore Leons dive to score against Harliquins in their Kabeberi 7s match at RFUEA Grounds. Sept 6, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] All eyes will be on Strathmore Leos speedster Victor Mola when the Kenya Morans take to the field at the 2025 Safari Sevens, which kicks off at the Nyayo National Stadium from October 10 to 12. Mola, who finished the 2025 National Sevens Circuit as both the top try scorer and top points scorer, has been rewarded for his outstanding season with a place in Morans’ 13-man squad. The talented winger crossed the line an impressive…

Kenya’s Praxides Anyango (left), UFS BXNG’s Maurice Odera and Flora Machela of Tanzania with the PST belt to be contested at the Edge Convention Center in Nairobi on Friday night.[Courtesy] The showdown is set for Edge Convention Centre in Nairobi starts with the ferocious and flawless Kenyan fighter Praxides Anyango ( 8 fights, 8 wins-2KOs) defending her Pugilist Syndicate of Tanzania (PST) crown on Friday. Anyango takes on Flora Machela of Tanzania in a thrilling 10 round  women’s super-featherweight title bout (59kg) that is being promoted by Maurice Odera of UFS BXNG. The night of long knives will also see…

Shelly-Ann FRASER-PRYCE reacts after finishing the women’s 100 meters semi-final at the World Athletics Championships at Japan National Stadium in Tokyo, on Sunday, September 14, 2025. [AFP] Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce bowed out as arguably the greatest woman sprinter of all time on Sunday — and fittingly she departed with yet another medal. The 38-year-old Jamaican can leave with her head held high after a silver in the women’s 4×100 metres relay on the final night of the world championships in Tokyo. “The warrior”, as she likes to refer to herself, has said she would like her legacy to be “the totality…

Golfer Mercy Nyanchama in past action at Machakos. [Mose Sammy, Standard] Kenya is preparing to host the East and Central All Africa Challenge Trophy (EACAACT) 2025, welcoming top female golfers from 11 countries in the region. The tournament will take place from October 20 to 25 at the picturesque Great Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort (GVRL) in Naivasha, Nakuru County. The biennial competition will bring together teams from hosts Kenya, Tanzania (defending champions), Uganda, Zambia, Burundi, Malawi, Mauritius, Madagascar, Reunion, Rwanda, and Seychelles. The Kenya Ladies Golf Union (KLGU) named a strong national team for the spectacular event on…

KCB Rugby players celebrate after winning a match at Driftwood Sevens.[KCB Rugby] KCB will take to the pitch this weekend hoping to perform better at the highly anticipated 27th edition of the Safari Sevens at Nyayo Stadium. The bankers, fresh from clinching the National Sevens Circuit title, will be among the top contenders in a tournament that has attracted 20 teams, 12 men’s and eight women’s sides, from across the region and beyond. This year’s Safari Sevens promises thrilling action as Kenya’s Shujaa seek to defend their crown against regional powerhouses Uganda and Zimbabwe. Other challengers include Zambia, Reunion, and…

Lilian Kong’ani reacts during the September Mug of the Month at Nyanza Golf Club. [Washington Onyango, Standard] The Nyanza Golf Club green fairways will come alive today as top women golfers from across the region converge for the Nyanza Ladies Open, part of the Kenya Ladies Golf Union (KLGU) Western Circuit. Leading the pack will be KLGU chairperson Rosemary Mkok, who will be joined by several lady captains, including Beatrice Otieno (Kakamega), Sarah Mokeria (Kisii), Margaret Mutwasi (Nakuru), and Phylis Kisuna (Kitale). The home club will be represented by Lina Akello, the lady captain, Sally Hawi, the vice chairperson of…

Harambee Starlets defender Lorine Ilavonga during a training session at Nyayo National Stadium on April 20 2025. [Jonah Onyango، Standard] The national football team, Harambee Starlets, is gearing up for the final phase of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) qualifier against Gambia. The Kenyans will clash with the Gambians in a two-legged third round, with the aggregate winner booking their ticket to the continental showpiece set for Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026. Starlets are looking to secure their return to the African stage, having made their first and only appearance in 2016. Starlets will…

Derrick Okongo (left) of Ulinzi Warriors tackles Powell Hargas of UON Terror during a past Kenya Basketball Federation Premier League match at Nyayo Gymnasium. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Former Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Men’s Premier League champions Ulinzi Warriors are yearning to return to glory days. The soldiers, who are currently representing the country in the second edition of the East Africa Basketball Championship Cup (EABCC), are eyeing the regional gong to end their trophy drought. Ulinzi head coach Benard Mufutu said that they are working hard to achieve their objectives. “Ulinzi has always been associated with success, and that is…

Kenya Deaflympics volleyball captain Hannah Wambui and her team mates during a training session at Nyayo Volleyball Court. [Ochieng Oyugi, Standard] Kenya women’s deaf volleyball captain Hannah Wambui says they will be out to show the world that Kenya is a powerhouse in the sport as they make their grand debut at the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics set for Japan on November 15-26. Confident Wambui is also optimistic that she will lead the squad—currently upping training at National Stadium and the University of Nairobi—into medal glory in the Summer Games. Despite Kenya being in a tough Group A consisting of world-beaters Italy, USA and hosts…

Harambee Stars head coach Benni MacCarthy during training session at Police Sacco on October 6, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Stafford] Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy will be focusing on building a stronger team for the future when Kenya takes to the field to play Burundi and Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) champions Ivory Coast in the ongoing 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Kenya are already out of the qualifiers after three defeats, three draws and two wins, results that leave them second last in Group F with nine points. Today, Stars are expected to take the field against Burundi at Intwari Stadium…

Harambee Starlets players celebrate scoring in a past match. [File] The national football team, Harambee Starlets, is gearing up for the final phase of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) qualifier against Gambia. The Kenyans will clash with the Gambians in a two-legged third round, with the aggregate winner booking their ticket to the continental showpiece set for Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026. Starlets are looking to secure their return to the African stage, having made their first and only appearance in 2016. Starlets will kick off their campaign on October 24 at Nyayo Stadium…

Shujaa captain George Ooro in action at Dubai Sevens. [Kenya Sevens] Kenya’s national rugby sevens team, Shujaa, has named a strong 13-man squad for the 2025 Safari Sevens tournament set to take place at the Nyayo National Stadium from October 10 to 12. George Ooro and Samuel Asati will continue to serve as co-captains, having guided their club KCB to victory in the 2025 SportPesa National Sevens Circuit last month. The experienced duo will lead Shujaa as they seek to successfully defend the Safari Sevens title. The squad also includes regular stars Vincent Onyala, Kevin Wekesa, Chrisant Ojwang, Patrick Odongo,…

Egypt v Senegal – Cairo International Stadium, Cairo, Egypt – March 25, 2022 Egypt’s Mohamed Salah reacts [REUTERS/Amr Abdallah Dalsh] Mohamed Salah wants to put a disappointing start to his season with Liverpool behind him on Wednesday and help Egypt beat Djibouti and qualify for the 2026 World Cup. A win for the record seven-time African champions over one of the lowest ranked teams in the continent will give them an unassailable lead over second-placed Burkina Faso in Group A with one match to spare. A two-time African Footballer of the Year, Salah has lost his spark with the Premier League champions, scoring just three goals…

 Masanaga Kageyama, technical director for the Japan Football Association (JFA), [Jijipress / AFP)  A senior Japan Football Association official has been sentenced to an 18-month suspended jail term in France after viewing images of child sexual abuse during a plane journey, a court official said Tuesday. Masanaga Kageyama, the association’s technical director, was arrested last week during a stopover at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris on the way to Chile to attend the Under-20 World Cup, according to Le Parisien newspaper. “The facts were discovered by the plane’s flight crew, who raised the alarm after noticing that the convicted man…

Referee Carlos Velasco Carballo of Spain shows England’s Steven Gerrard the Yellow card during the 2014 World Cup Group D match vs Uruguay at the Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo June 19, 2014. [REUTERS/Ivan Alvarado] Former England and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes ego and club rivalry prevented the Three Lions from winning international tournaments during his time as a player. Branded a “golden generation”, Gerrard was part of an immensely talented squad that failed to get beyond the quarter-finals of a major tournament under a number of different managers. The 45-year-old, who won 114 international caps, led Liverpool to the Champions League…

Maurine Chebor celebrates after winning at Bingwafest Rift Valley Region in August. [Courtesy]  Fresh from stamping her authority at the BingwaFest opener in Nakuru with an emphatic double win, long-distance star Maurine Chebor will once again headline the field as the Betika Cross Country 2025 lands in Kericho on Saturday. The high-altitude Kericho Teachers Training College grounds will host hundreds of elite and grassroots athletes battling across three categories, the 10km Men/Women’s race, Mixed Relay, and Masters (50+ years) in what promises to be another electrifying leg of the Athletics Kenya/Betika series. With complimentary registration already generating substantial interest, anticipation…

Tusker’s Vincent Otieno dribbles the ball past Shabana’s Biron Omondi during their SportPesa Premier League match at Kasarani Stadium on October 5, 2025. [Tusker FC]  The 2025-2026 SportPesa Premier League (SPL) is beginning to take shape after four rounds, with Shabana and Posta Rangers emerging as early pacesetters following impressive starts. Both sides sit level at the top with seven points, each having a game in hand. Shabana, who returned to the top flight with renewed energy, have been one of the most entertaining teams so far, scoring six goals in three matches. Their solid form, built around attacking flair…

Tusker’s Vincent Otieno dribbles the ball past Shabana’s Biron Omondi during their SportPesa Premier League match at Kasarani Stadium on October 5, 2025. [Tusker FC]  The 2025-2026 SportPesa Premier League (SPL) is beginning to take shape after four rounds, with Shabana and Posta Rangers emerging as early pacesetters following impressive starts. Both sides sit level at the top with seven points, each having a game in hand. Shabana, who returned to the top flight with renewed energy, have been one of the most entertaining teams so far, scoring six goals in three matches. Their solid form, built around attacking flair…

Adak acting CEO Peninah Wahome in a past event. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]  The Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (Adak) has denied frustrating former world Under-20 5000m champion Edward Zakayo in a disciplinary case that triggered questions last weekend. Adak said it complied with the national rules and the World Anti-Doping code in handling Zakayo’s case. In a social media post titled “Why I Left Athletics” and which was widely circulated, Zakayo alleged that he was not given an opportunity to be heard by the national anti-doping body. He alleged a conspiracy between Adak officers and his management to subject him to…

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga gestures to the fans after scoring against Seychelles in their 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier on Tuesday 9, at Kasarani Stadium. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] Is this the time for Michael Olunga to finally make history? The striker, now plying his trade in Qatar, is two goals shy of becoming Kenya’s record all-time top scorer. Harambee Stars take on Burundi and the Ivory Coast in somewhat ‘dead-rubber’ matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, but the forward still harbours the thought of rewriting history. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp The towering forward currently is tied with…

Son Heung-Min #7 of Los Angeles FC is tackled by Stian Gregersen #5 of Atlanta United during the first half at BMO Stadium on October 5, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. [AFP] Facts and figures from 2026 World Cup qualifying in Africa ahead of final two matchdays, starting on Wednesday: There have been 80 goals scored in Group F, followed by Groups A and I with 64 each. The leading individual scorer is Los Angeles-based Gabon striker Denis Bouanga with eight goals. Morocco are the leading scorers among the 53 participating nations with 21 goals. Ayoub el Kaabi from Greek…

Joyce Njuguini in action during the 2025 Kiambu Open at Kiambu Golf Club, May 9, 2025. [File, Standard] Sharon Moraa claimed the top prize in the ‘Changamka na Unicolour’ golf tournament at Kisii Sports Club on Sunday. Moraa scored 69 nett to clinch the coveted title as the overall winner and was also crowned the ladies medal winner. Her fantastic form continued as she also hit the longest drive on course two, to dominate the ladies’ field. The men’s category saw fierce competition, but Christopher Maato, won with 70 nett. Maato had an exceptional day by also bagging the mug winner prize and showing surgical precision to win the nearest to…

Junior golfers pose with their medal prize after the 2023 Us Kids junior Golf Local Tour Golf Tournament at Nyali Golf and Country Club Course in Mombasa County on Sunday. [Maarufu Mohamed, Standard] An estimated 200 junior golfers put up a good show to win various awards in the 2025 US kids Mombasa tour golf tournament at Nyali Golf and Country on Sunday. The course featured the juniors from under 6 years to 18 years who tamed the fairways by unleashing their skills and talent playing either 18 or 9 nine holes to walk home with medals after recording brilliant scores from their age groups. Gunita Patel recorded a total round of 121 strokes to…

Derrick Okongo (L) of Ulinzi Warriors tackle Powell Hargas of UON Terror during their Kenya Basketball Federation match at Nyayo Gymnasium stadium on May 10, 2025.UON Terror won 59-53. [Stafford Ondego, Standard] All Kenyan sides will be in action today as the 2025 East Africa Basketball Championship Cup (EABCC) enters day three at Nyayo Stadium Gymnasium. With the pool winners set to book direct ticket to the semi-finals, the Kenyan boys will have everything to fight for as they look to ensure that the trophy which eluded them last year remains at home. Former league champions Ulinzi Warriors take on Ethiopia’s Gembela City in their second Group B match. A win for the…

Migori Youth FC players. [Washington Onyango, Standard] The 2025/26 FKF National Super League is heating up after round two of matches, with Mombasa United, Migori Youth, MOFA, and Naivas setting the early pace — all tied at six points from their opening two fixtures. Mombasa United continued their fine start to life in the second tier after beating Fortune Sacco 2–1 in a thrilling encounter on Sunday. The coastal side, who had also won their first match, are now top of the table on goal difference. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp Migori Youth matched that momentum by beating Talanta…

  Vetlabs Junior Captain, Rohini Shah in action during the Diwali Golf Festival tournament, October 4, 2025. [Mose Sammy, Standard] It was indeed “fireworks on the Vetlabs Sports Club layout” this past weekend as a field of 246 golfers was hosted for the exhilarating Diwali Golf Festival. The festive spirit of Diwali was matched by some brilliant performances, with Gitau Kanyua stealing the show to claim the overall title. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp Playing off a handicap of 22, Kanyua secured the top prize as the overall winner with a fantastic score of 42 stableford points, narrowly edging…

Shabana FC in their match against AFC Leopards during FKF Premier League at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos County on Sunday, March 16, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Shabana FC moved to the top of the SportPesa Premier League table on Sunday evening despite being held to a 1-1 draw by Tusker in a round four match staged at Kasarani Stadium. Harambee Stars striker Austin Odongo netted for Shabana in the first half before Ian Simiyu rescued a point for Tusker who are still without a win after two defeats and two draws. Shabana sit top with seven points same as Posta Rangers. Follow The Standard channel on WhatsApp…

From Left: Kenya Lionesses captain Sheila Chajira, Kenya Rugby Union CEO Thomas Odundo and Kenya Shujaa captain Samuel Asati during the launch of the 27th edition of Safari Sevens Rugby tournament at the KRU Grounds in Nairobi, on October 3, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard] Kenya Shujaa captain Samuel Asati and Kenya Lionesses skipper Sheila Chajira believe their sides have what it takes to ensure trophies in the 27th edition of the annual Safari Sevens rugby championship remain at home. Their sentiments have been echoed by the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Chief Executive Officer Thomas Odundo who reiterated that this year’s…