The second leg of the promotion-relegation play-off between Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United was abandoned on Tuesday after disorder broke out at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.
Sharks were leading 2-1 in the 65th minute when referee John Sulwe awarded Mombasa United a penalty. The decision sparked protests from sections of the Sharks support, with some spectators entering the pitch and confronting the referee.
The penalty was not taken before the match was stopped. Security personnel moved in to contain the situation and protect the referee as the disorder escalated, with KDF personnel also involved in restoring order.
Sharks’ lead had levelled the tie at 3-3 on aggregate after Mombasa United won the first leg 2-1 at Mbaraki Sports Club on October 1.
Mombasa United had taken control of the first leg through Denise Mabeya’s penalty before Waziri Junior extended their advantage. Sharks reduced the deficit through Wayne Delvine late in the match, leaving the tie open ahead of the return fixture.
The two clubs were contesting the play-off to determine the final outcome of the promotion and relegation battle involving the 2025/26 Premier League and National Super League campaigns.
Mombasa United finished third in the National Super League, while Sharks ended the Premier League season in 16th position. The Football Kenya Federation subsequently facilitated the two-legged play-off to settle the contest.
The return match, however, ended prematurely with the aggregate score at 3-3 and Mombasa United yet to take the awarded penalty.
The abandonment leaves the promotion-relegation battle unresolved, with the next course of action expected to be determined by the relevant football authorities under the applicable competition and disciplinary rules.
