Soy United seal NSL return with gritty win over Bumbani Stars

Soy United booked their place in next season’s National Super League (NSL) after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Bumbani Stars in a tense playoff clash at Dandora Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

The game started at a frantic pace, with both sides showing intent but failing to make their early pressure count. Soy United launched two promising attacks within the opening 15 minutes, both resulting in corners as the Bumbani defence stood firm.

In the 29th minute, Alfred Ratolo had the first clear-cut chance of the match, breaking free on goal only for the Bumbani goalkeeper to react quickly and push the ball away for another corner. Despite sustained pressure, Soy United couldn’t find the breakthrough before the interval.

After a goalless first half, Soy United made a tactical change as Joseph Wafula replaced Kevin Odira, a move that injected fresh energy into their attacking play.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 65th minute when Alfred Ratolo capitalised on a goalmouth scramble to slot home, his shot glancing off the woodwork and into the net to give Soy United a deserved lead.

Coach Jeffers Odongo’s men managed the game superbly from that point, tightening their defence while making strategic substitutions to maintain control. Peter Okello made way for Dennis Shigami in the 67th minute, and later, a triple substitution brought on Harrison Lutta, Eric Ondeko, and Harrison Mwandike for Ambrose Sifuna, Clinton Ouma, and Ratolo to preserve the advantage.

Despite Bumbani’s late push, Soy United’s disciplined defending ensured they held firm until the final whistle.

The win sees Soy United clinch a coveted spot in the National Super League, marking their return after a five-year absence.