Sofapaka FC walked away with hundreds of thousands in gate collection proceeds following their match against Kenyan giants AFC Leopards on Sunday, December 15, at a packed Dandora Stadium.
The 2009 FKF Premier League champions, who were the hosts, earned Ksh617,300 from the match.
Gate collection remains a significant source of revenue for football clubs in Kenya, where attracting corporate sponsors and partners can be challenging.
Many Kenyan clubs struggle to draw large crowds, with Sofapaka being one such team with a dwindling fan base. However, home matches against top teams like Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, and Shabana FC provide an opportunity for substantial earnings from gate collections.
For Sofapaka, who have faced financial difficulties and lack a sponsor in recent seasons, the funds will be crucial in meeting various club needs. Despite a slow start to the current season, Sofapaka have enjoyed a resurgence under the guidance of veteran coach Robert Matano, who has helped lift the team after last season’s struggles, which saw them secure their league status through a playoff.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Kelly Madada and Edward ‘Ondimo’ Omondi scoring for AFC Leopards and Sofapaka, respectively. However, post-match scenes were marred by violent protests from AFC Leopards fans, who clashed with police over perceived poor officiating. Law enforcement had to use teargas to disperse the crowds and restore order.
Looking ahead, Sofapaka are currently ninth on the league table with 18 points and will play Bidco United away on Sunday, December 22. AFC Leopards, who sit in sixth place with 19 points, will host Bandari FC in their next league match, also on December 22.
This season, both Sofapaka and Shabana FC have been aiming to improve their financial standing through home games against larger teams, with Shabana also benefiting from the revenue generated in their matches.
The two clubs’ struggles highlight the financial challenges faced by many Kenyan football teams, and such gate collections play a vital role in sustaining their operations.
Meanwhile Shabana FC also have enjoyed significant gate collection revenue from their recent home matches, reflecting the crucial role matchday earnings play for many Kenyan football clubs.
Shabana FC collected over Ksh1 million in revenue following their match against KCB last Sunday at the Gusii Stadium. The Glamour Boys secured a 2-0 victory with goals from Brian Michira in the 19th minute and Austin Odongo in the 92nd minute.
The club reported a gross revenue of Ksh1,015,000, thanking fans for their strong support: “Asante Sana (Thank you) to all those who made it to Gusii Stadium for our match against KCB FC. It was great seeing the Stadium painted red and white,” the club said in a statement.
This isn’t the first time Shabana has hit the million mark in gate collections. Since their return to top-flight football, the club has been transparent about their matchday revenue, fostering trust among fans and encouraging strong attendance.
Under head coach Peter Okidi, Shabana remains unbeaten in their last five home matches and has suffered just one loss in their last eight outings. They are now fifth on the league table with 20 points, preparing for their final match of the year on Saturday, December 21, against Mathare United.
