What began as a day of excitement turned into panic and pain at Gusii Stadium on Sunday, as violence broke out ahead of the FKF Premier League match between Shabana FC and Gor Mahia FC. Just moments before the 2 p.m. kickoff, clashes between rival fans escalated into chaos, forcing a stampede as thousands scrambled to escape flying stones and flaring tempers.
Amid widespread rumors and graphic social media footage, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) moved quickly to set the record straight: no deaths were reported.
In an official statement released on Sunday evening, FKF expressed deep concern over the unrest.
We have received confirmed reports from Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, RAM Hospital, Hema Hospital, Christamarianne Hospital, and the police, indicating that a total of 72 individuals were treated for injuries. Thankfully, no fatalities have been reported,” the statement read.
The Federation condemned the violence and assured the public that investigations were underway.
Football must remain a sport that brings people together—not one that puts lives at risk. The safety and well-being of fans, players, and officials remains a top priority for the Federation,” it added.
Emergency services worked quickly, and though injuries ranged from bruises to broken limbs, the prompt response helped avoid any loss of life. FKF urged the public and media to avoid spreading unverified claims, especially false reports of fatalities, which only added fear to an already tense situation.
Despite the chaos, the match resumed after a one-hour delay. Gor Mahia’s Sylvester Owino scored the game’s only goal, lifting his side to a crucial 1-0 win and pushing them into second place in the standings—just two points behind leaders Kenya Police FC.
But the day’s drama off the pitch overshadowed the football. For many fans, the trauma lingers.
As FKF promises accountability and enhanced security for future fixtures, the Gusii incident stands as a stark reminder: football must be safe before it can be celebrated.
