Gucha Stars v Nakuru Bucks replay abandoned as promotion drama deepens

Gucha Stars were leading 2–0 and appeared to have one foot in next season’s National Super League (NSL) when match officials suddenly walked off the pitch, citing insecurity inside the stadium.

Security personnel quickly intervened to calm the situation, but the damage had been done- the game could not continue.

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) League's and Competitions Committee will determine whether the result stands, if the match is to be replayed again, or if other disciplinary measures will follow.

Friday’s chaotic finish is the latest twist in a saga that has stretched over two months. Gucha Stars were initially stripped of three points for allegedly fielding an ineligible player who was accused of impersonation.

The sanction, lodged through a protest that arrived well beyond the mandated 48-hour window, effectively denied them automatic promotion.

However, Gucha successfully challenged the decision before the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) and later the High Court.

The SDT ruled that the LCC had acted without proper jurisdiction, nullified the docking of points, and ordered a full replay of the decisive fixture. 

The tribunal further stipulated that only players registered for the 2024/25 season could participate, barring any mid-season signings.

A Gucha victory would have guaranteed their direct promotion to the NSL, while any other outcome would have allowed Soy United, and Compel FC affected by the tribunal’s ruling, to claim the slot.

Gucha’s two-goal cushion and commanding display seemed to have sealed their destiny until the match descended into chaos.

With promotion still unresolved and emotions running high, all eyes now turn to the FKF LCC. 

Their forthcoming verdict will decide whether Gucha Stars’ long, contentious battle for NSL football finally ends in triumph—or another round of uncertainty.