As the sun sets on the 2022-2023 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) season, the spotlight has shifted from the triumphant celebrations of Kenya Police, who have secured the league title, to the harrowing struggle for survival at the bottom of the table.
The fate of three teams—Nairobi City Stars, Murang’a Seal, and Bidco United—hangs precariously in the balance as they confront the grim possibility of relegation.
With only one round left to play, the atmosphere is thick with tension, hope, and uncertainty, encapsulating the essence of competitive football.
Currently, Nairobi City Stars find themselves in a precarious position, sitting third from the bottom with 34 points, closely followed by Murang’a Seal, also on 34 points, and Bidco United, languishing at the bottom with 32 points.
The stakes could not be higher as each team prepares for their final matches scheduled for June 22. Bidco United will face Sofapaka, while Nairobi City Stars will take on Mathare United, and Murang’a Seal will battle Talanta.
The outcomes of these matches will determine whether these teams will remain in the KPL or be relegated to the second division. Amidst this chaos, Bidco United's head coach, Anthony Akhulia, remains a beacon of optimism.
Despite the team's current position at the bottom of the log, Akhulia's unwavering belief in his players is a testament to his leadership.
“We need to do a lot more to consolidate our status as a KPL side next season. It’s a tough battle ahead, but I believe we still have a chance to make it to the 16th position and claim a spot in the playoffs,” he stated, embodying the spirit of resilience that defines sportsmanship.
The recent 1-0 loss to Kakamega Homeboyz has intensified Bidco's fears of relegation, leaving them in a vulnerable state.
The defeat not only solidified their position at the bottom but also allowed Nairobi City Stars to secure a pivotal 2-1 victory over KCB FC, further complicating Bidco's fight for survival.
Akhulia reflects on this bitter reality, acknowledging that the loss has altered the course of their battle.
“Unfortunately, we lost points when it counted most,” he lamented, yet he clings to a thread of hope, relying on faith and strategy to navigate the final match.
The psychological aspect of this relegation battle cannot be overstated. Akhulia recognises the toll that the recent defeats have taken on his players.
“Yes, the players are undoubtedly impacted by the loss, and to prepare them for the game, I must now work on their mindset. It will be the game changer,” he remarked.
He reckons the emphasis on mental preparation is crucial; in high-stakes situations, the mind can be both an ally and an adversary.
"The ability to remain focused, resilient, and motivated could very well determine the fate of Bidco United on the final match day," he said.
The mathematics of survival for Bidco United is both simple and daunting. They must secure a victory against Sofapaka while simultaneously hoping that their direct competitors—Mara Sugar, Posta Rangers, Nairobi City Stars, and Murang’a Seal—fail to accumulate points.
This intricate web of dependencies adds layers of complexity to an already tense situation, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football.
In this relegation maze, five teams are locked in a fierce struggle, each vying for a lifeline as the clock ticks down to the season’s conclusion.
