KPL clubs fall victim as Sofapaka splash cash on seven

Sofapaka have so far signed seven players as Sam Ssimbwa tightens his squad that lost the league title by a slim margin last season.

Batoto Ba Mungu, financed by City business mogul, Elly Kalekwa, has raided KPL opponents with Kariobangi Sharks, military side, Ulinzi Stars and troubled Nakumatt FC, all falling victims of the money being splashed by the Congolese businessman.

Army side, Ulinzi Stars lost a dedicated soldier and club’s top scorer Stephen Waruru same as Nakumatt FC, who will have to do without striker Kepha Aswani after both players crossed to Sofapaka on undisclosed transfer fees.

Nick Mwendwa owned Kariobangi Sharks also fell victim to Kalekwa’s deep pockets after they failed to convince Ibrahim Kitawi and Elli Asieche to stay at the club.

Even the relegated Western Stima could not avoid Sofapaka’s financial bullying having had to let go defender Vitalis Akumu.

Sofapaka also landed a jab on Nairobi City Stars, who lost goalkeeper Emmanuel Opiyo besides roping in Jackson Saleh, who has been club-less ever since left Western Stima.

Meanwhile, Ssimbwa had to do away with Ugandan defender Jonathan Mugabi, who had to pave way for Burundian new signing Moussa Omar, another one who could not resist the fat cheque offered by former KPL champions.

This is in compliance with the ‘KPL-foreign quota’ rule that allows only a maximum of five foreigners in a team at any particular season.

Sofapaka currently have five foreigners among them goalkeeper Mathias Kigonya, Aloro and Mugabi (both defenders) and strikers Feni Ali and Umaru Kasumba.