Somali outfit Mogadishu City Club has issued a public apology following a video that caused widespread outrage among Kenyans on social media.
In footage circulating online, Mogadishu City Club fans are seen desecrating the Kenyan flag by stepping on it and kicking it away after the team lost 3-1 to Kenya Police FC in the 2025/26 CAF Champions League First Preliminary Round played at Nyayo National Stadium.
Why did Somali club issue apology to Kenyans?
In a statement, the club condemned the actions of the fans, apologized for the ‘unfortunate incident’ and welcomed appropriate action to be taken against the individuals involved.
“During the CAF Champions League first-leg match between Mogadishu City Club and Kenya Police FC, an unfortunate incident occurred in which a few young fans were seen kicking the Kenyan national flag.
On behalf of Mogadishu City Club, we strongly condemn this act and extend our deepest apologies to the Government and People of Kenya. Such behavior has no place in football or in the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship that this competition represents.
We fully support any appropriate action by the Kenyan authorities against those involved, and we urge our fans—especially the younger generation—to always respect all nations, their flags, and their people.
Football is a game of unity, love, and mutual respect, and we call on all supporters to uphold these values and promote peace and harmony in our communities,” the club posted.
Kenya Police power past Mogadishu City
In that match, Erick Zakayo was the first to draw first blood for the law enforcers, finishing crisply from an Albert Otieno cross inside the box.
Issa Adim Marsis restored parity for the visitors shortly after the second-half kickoff.
However, it wasn’t long before new club winger Edward Omondi opened his scoring account, restoring Police’s advantage with a well-taken goal.
Super-sub David Simuyu, introduced later in the match, sealed the victory with a third goal, giving his team a comfortable advantage heading into the second leg.
The result puts Police FC in a strong position as even a draw in the second leg on Sunday will be enough to see them through to the second preliminary round, where they could face either Jamus FC of South Sudan or Al Hilal of Sudan, with their sights firmly set on the group stage.