A weekend storm of criticism erupted over the state of Kasarani Stadium’s playing surface, turning what should have been a routine CAF Confederation Cup fixture into a flashpoint for fans and officials alike. The once-lush turf that dazzled during CHAN 2024 now looked tired and parched, prompting sharp questions about maintenance, funding, and readiness for major tournaments.
Matchday Reality
Ahead of Nairobi United’s clash with Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic, observers noticed a pitch that had lost its verdant sheen. Where green once rolled uninterrupted, the grass had faded toward brown, and the surface showed signs of prolonged drought. Organisers watered the field before kickoff, but the effort proved cosmetic—too little, too late.
The game itself delivered drama: an 89th-minute strike from Wissam Ben Yeddar sealed a 1–0 win for Wydad. Yet the result was overshadowed by the condition of the turf, which left players, coaches, and supporters questioning how a national stadium could fall so far from the standard it once set.
Sports Kenya Responds
Breaking its silence via the Kasarani Stadium X account, Sports Kenya issued a concise apology and a promise of action: “We apologise, we'll do better, and that's why we're closing for renovations.” The statement acknowledged the problem and signalled an imminent closure for repairs.
Officials pointed to a major contributing factor: a substantial unpaid water bill to the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company that has led to intermittent supply cuts at some facilities. That financial strain, they say, hampered routine pitch care and left the turf vulnerable.
Looking Ahead
Kasarani is not just any stadium; it is one of the venues slated to host matches for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. With that spotlight looming, the announcement of renovations is both urgent and necessary. Fans will be watching closely as Sports Kenya moves from apology to action, hoping the iconic arena can reclaim the lush, world-class surface it once proudly displayed.
