NAIROBI, KENYA – Drama has erupted in the Kenya Premier League (KPL) after Sofapaka FC reportedly suspended their first-choice goalkeeper, Olark, and his goalkeeping coach, Obungu, following a disastrous performance during their Sunday fixture against title contenders Tusker FC.
The immediate disciplinary action, allegedly executed by Head Coach Eziekel Akwana, comes after the pair were reported held responsible for conceding a goal described by many on social media as “unacceptable.”
The Moment of Disaster
The match at Kasarani Annex had been a tightly contested affair, with Sofapaka holding strong to force a barren 0-0 draw against Tusker in the opening 45 minutes.
The game flipped dramatically in the second half. The controversy centers on the goal conceded in the 72nd minute.
Tusker’s Ian Simiyu managed to score from what was widely considered a routine, feeble shot that somehow slipped through Olark’s legs and into the back of the net.
The demoralizing nature of the goal appeared to instantly cripple Sofapaka’s defense, as Tusker capitalized almost immediately. Just a few minutes later, in the 75th minute, Ian Simiyu struck again, bagging a brace and securing a commanding 2-0 victory for Tusker.
Suspension and Social Media Uproar
Information rapidly circulating across Kenyan and regional social media channels indicates that the club hierarchy, via Coach Akwana, acted swiftly, suspending both the custodian and his coach Obungu effective immediately.
While Sofapaka FC has yet to issue an official statement, the news has ignited a heated debate:
Was the immediate suspension justified? Many fans argue that such a public and swift action is harsh, while others believe that the magnitude of the error especially its role in a crucial defeat warranted immediate action.
The Goalkeeping Unit Questioned: The suspension of both the player and the coach suggests the club is questioning not just the execution, but the preparation and training of the entire goalkeeping unit.
Sofapaka are set to take on Mathare Utd in their next KPL match and are likely to rely on the second choice goalkeeper.
