- Tisini, the league’s data analysts, name well-balanced SportPesa League Team of the Week Round 18.
- Kenya Police FC led with four players, Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards had two each, while Shabana, Murang’a SEAL, and Kariobangi Sharks also featured.
- Kenya Police FC head coach Nicholas Muyoti was named Coach of the Week.
The SportPesa League entered its second leg with Round 18 over the weekend, featuring eight thrilling matches across various venues in the country.
On that note, one fixture was not played, as it was postponed. Nairobi United, who were scheduled to face Kakamega Homeboyz, were committed to continental duty, hosting Azam FC in a CAF Confederation Cup group stage fixture.
On Saturday, reigning champions Kenya Police FC managed to edge Mara Sugar 1-0 to return to winning ways, while another standout fixture of the day saw APS Bomet come from behind to force a 3-3 draw against Shabana FC despite being a man down.
ALSO READ: Ochouga scores late to inspire Gor Mahia to an epic comeback win against Bidco United
Gor Mahia concluded the day with a magnificent turnaround, coming from behind to beat Bidco United 2-1 and move top of the table, level with AFC Leopards, who dominated Sunday’s action alongside Sofapaka and edged them 1-0.
Sunday also saw Murang’a SEAL close in on a return to winning form after claiming a 2–1 victory over Ulinzi Stars.
The match, however, was halted in the 94th minute following protests from Ulinzi players over the winner goal that had been awarded. Meanwhile, Tusker would beat KCB 2-1.
As the title race heats up between rivals Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, who are joint-top with 36 points, the SportPesa League Team of the Week for Round 18 featured a balanced selection of players, determined by league data analyst Tisini.
Here are the XI standout performers from Round 18 of the SportPesa League:
SportPesa League Team of the Week Round 18
Goalkeeper – Job Ochieng – Kenya Police FC
Last season’s Golden Glove winner stood out on Saturday, making crucial saves to keep his ninth clean sheet of the season in a narrow 1-0 victory.
The win ended his side’s six-match winless run and handed new head coach Nicholas Muyoti his first victory.
He also played a key role in preventing defeat despite facing 18 shot attempts from Mara Sugar.
Defender – Job Ochieng ; Kenya Police FC
After starting on the bench in Muyoti’s debut, the captain returned to the lineup against Mara Sugar.
According to the statistics, he was named Man of the Match with 12 interceptions, several clearances and blocks, and strong aerial presence.
He also contributed to the buildup that led to Yves Koutiama decisive goal.
Defender – Kayci Odhiambo ; AFC Leopards
Odhiambo was named Man of the Match in their narrow 1-0 victory on Sunday at Kasarani Stadium, where he scored the solo goal to secure three vital points, moving his side joint-top with Gor Mahia.
The defender impressed with his clearances, passing accuracy, and contributed two of Ingwe’s 21 total shot attempts in the match.
Defender – Baraka Badi – Kenya Police FC
Remained solid at the back alongside Cheche, helping his side avoid punishment from Mara Sugar’s attackers and securing three important points.
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Defender – Paul Ochuoga – Gor Mahia
If there is a player who has flourished under Charles Akonnor’s squad, it is Paul Ochuoga, who has been exceptional for the club.
On Sunday, Ochuoga scored his second goal of the season, helping his side stage a comeback in a 2-1 win at Kasarani Stadium.
He was named Man of the Match for his goal, multiple shot attempts, touches inside the box, and success in winning second balls.
Ochuoga has been a crucial figure in the record champions’ backline this season and also has an assist to his name.
Midfielder – Enock Morrison – Gor Mahia
Morrison, like Ochuoga, has been in fine form this season.
His ability to contribute in attack while providing defensive creativity helped Gor Mahia dominate midfield and secure three crucial away points.
Midfielder – Brian Chonjo Otieno – Kenya Police FC
A well-coordinated buildup between Chonjo and Cheche allowed him to set up Yves, who slotted home the winning goal against Mara Sugar.
ALSO READ: Trios from Gor Mahia, Mara Sugar & Sofapaka headline SportPesa League Round 8 Team of the Week
Winger – Tyson Otieno – AFC Leopards
If there is a player who has elevated AFC Leopards’ gameplay this season, it is Tyson Otieno, who has excelled since his debut in the Mashemeji Derby.
On Sunday against Sofapaka, Otieno dominated play before being substituted, creating several attempts and delivering dangerous crosses into the box, though his teammates were unable to convert.
Winger – Humphrey Aroko – Kariobangi Sharks
Despite Sharks’ struggles this season, Aroko has been in top form, dominating performances consistently.
He stood out in their goalless draw against Bandari FC at Mbaraki Sports Club in Mombasa, where Sharks had 14 clear attempts without scoring.
Aroko has five goals this season for a side currently at the bottom of the table with 14 points.
Forward – Brian Olega – Shabana FC
Olega announced his arrival in style, scoring twice as his side fought back to secure a 3-3 draw against APS Bomet.
He was named Man of the Match for his several shot attempts and influential touches inside the box, despite his side dropping points against a 10-man side coached by their former boss Sammy “Pamzo” Omollo.
Forward – Joe Waithira – Murang’a SEAL
Arguably one of the best players in the SportPesa League this season, Waithira scored both goals for Murang’a SEAL – one from the penalty spot and another from open play, as they edged Ulinzi Stars at Ulinzi Sports Complex, despite the match being halted in the final minutes.
With the matter now before the FKF Leagues and Competitions committee, Waithira continues to lead the scoring charts, tied with Ulinzi Stars forward Paul Odhiambo on 10 goals each.
SportPesa League Coach of the Week – Nicholas Muyoti ; Kenya Police FC
In just his second match as head coach of the Law Enforcers, Muyoti remains undefeated, with a draw against his former club Nairobi United and a narrow 1-0 win over Mara Sugar this weekend.
Returning the reigning champions to winning ways and ending a six-match winless run has been his primary task, and he has delivered.
Police now sit fourth on the log with 28 points, level with Shabana but with an inferior goal difference.