Replay or forfeit? The Tribunal’s mixed signals that keen on delaying NSL kick off

The Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) has found itself at the center of controversy over the handling of player ineligibility cases.

In SDT case E039 of 2025, the Tribunal ordered a replay of a league match pitting Nakuru Bucks against Gucha Stars despite a prior FKF Appeals Committee ruling that awarded a forfeiture.

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Just days later, in SDT case E048 of 2025, the same Tribunal took a completely different approach, upholding a forfeiture and ordering Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to update league standings immediately.

The mixed signals have not been a source of confusion- they have effectively stalled the start of the 2025/2026 National Super League (NSL) season.

Fixtures are out, teams are ready, but the first whistle looks far from being blown.

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Nakuru Bucks vs Gucha Stars replay controversy

The case that sparked the storm, SDT E039, revolved around a match where Gucha Stars allegedly fielded an ineligible player.

The FKF Appeals Committee, applying the FKF Rules and Regulations Governing Kenyan Football (2019), awarded the match to Nakuru Bucks on a 2–0 forfeit basis.

But when the matter reached the SDT, the Tribunal ordered a replay, effectively reopening a case that had already been conclusively determined by FKF’s internal appeals system.

Supporters of the ruling argue it promotes “sporting merit” by letting players settle matters on the pitch.

Critics countered that it rewards the offending team with a second chance, undermining the deterrent effect of the eligibility rules and setting a worrying precedent.

The Gucha Youth case: A different tune

A few weeks later, in SDT case E048 of 2025, the Tribunal faced a similar dispute involving Gucha Youth FC.

In that case, Nyamira Youth FC had fielded a player, Leonard Magori Ondieki, who was registered with three clubs in the same season.

This time, the Tribunal took a hard line: It affirmed the FKF Appeals Committee’s decision awarding Gucha Youth a 2–0 win and 3 points.

It criticized FKF for failing to implement its own ruling and declared that ignoring such decisions “undermines the rule of law.”

It ordered immediate compliance, instructing FKF to update the league standings without delay.

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Mixed messages, big consequences

The contrast between E039 and E048 could not be starker.

In one case, the Tribunal chose a replay despite a forfeiture decision; in the other, it enforced a forfeiture and stressed the importance of finality.

This inconsistency has real-world consequences: Clubs are left unsure whether fielding an ineligible player will result in an automatic loss or just a rematch.

Administrators must guess whether Tribunal panels will prioritize sporting replays or regulatory sanctions.

Most critically, the 2025/2026 NSL season has been delayed, with fixtures already out, but no kick-off date confirmed- depriving players, fans, and sponsors of competitive football.

Why this matters for Kenyan football

Kenyan football’s credibility has often been questioned due to governance disputes.

Decisions like these risk deepening that perception.

Rules on player eligibility exist to ensure fairness. They lose their power if violators are simply given a second chance on the pitch.

Internationally, the standard is clear: the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and FIFA Disciplinary Code treat fielding an ineligible player as a strict liability offence, resulting in forfeiture (usually 3–0)-not replay.

Time for the SDT to settle the law

The Tribunal has an opportunity to restore confidence by harmonizing its jurisprudence: Forfeiture must be the default sanction where ineligibility is proven.

Replays should only be ordered where evidence is inconclusive or due process at the FKF level was clearly flawed.

FKF decisions must be implemented unless lawfully overturned, as delays cause disruption to entire leagues.

Consistency is not just a legal nicety; it is crucial to the integrity and smooth running of Kenyan football.

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Conclusion: Clear rules, fair play

The SDT’s decision in E048 is a step in the right direction, reinforcing accountability and respecting FKF’s internal rulings. But the replay in E039 risks opening a dangerous loophole.

As we await the delayed start of the NSL season, one thing is clear: Kenyan football needs predictability, enforcement, and respect for the rules, not uncertainty that leaves clubs and fans in limbo.