Shabana Day Turns Dramatic: Pamba Jiji Stuns Shabana FC in Penalty Thriller at Gusii Stadium

The inaugural Shabana Day on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Gusii Stadium was nothing short of a festival — charged with passion, community pride, and all the drama Kenyan football fans crave. Thousands of shabikis flocked to the stadium to celebrate Shabana FC’s journey, witness new signings, and enjoy a nail-biting friendly against Tanzanian side Pamba Jiji.

But what unfolded was an edge-of-the-seat thriller that ended in heartbreak for the home side.

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Pamba Jiji Stun Shabana in Penalty Shootout After Fierce 2-2 Draw

The match kicked off with energy and purpose. Shabana’s Brian Michira delighted the crowd with dazzling skill and an early goal that sent the home fans into raptures. Yet the Tanzanian visitors quickly silenced the celebrations, leveling the score within minutes.

Both teams traded blows in a high-tempo game, with Pamba Jiji taking the lead in the 55th minute after capitalizing on defensive lapses from the Glamour Boys. Just when it looked like the trophy could slip away, Shabana staged a fierce comeback, scoring a dramatic equalizer in the dying moments of the game to force a tense penalty shootout.

In the end, the visitors held their nerve, winning 5–4 on penalties, adding a surprise twist to a day that was supposed to be all about Shabana.

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Presidential Promise: Sh600 Million for Gusii Stadium and Sh25 Million Team Bus

Yet Shabana Day was more than the results on the field — it was a celebration of a new dawn for football in Kisii. Kisii Governor Simba Arati electrified the crowd by announcing a major gift from President William Ruto: Sh600 million to upgrade Gusii Stadium to international standards.

As if that wasn’t enough, the President handed over a brand-new Sh25 million team bus to Shabana FC, a crucial boost for logistics and team travel as the club eyes bigger ambitions in the FKF Premier League.

Governor Arati later rewarded Pamba Jiji with Sh200,000 (about Tsh4 million) for their spirited performance in a gesture that highlighted camaraderie between Kenyan and Tanzanian football.

“This is a new era for Gusii football,” said Arati. “With these investments, Shabana is positioned not just to compete locally but to shine across Africa.”

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New Faces, New Hope: Shabana Unveils 14 New Signings

Shabana Day also featured the unveiling of 14 fresh signings, signalling a strong squad rebuild ahead of the FKF Premier League season. Among the new recruits are notable names like Byron Otieno from Kariobangi Sharks, Humphrey Obino of Murang’a Seal, David Odoyo from Tusker FC, former Gor Mahia midfielder Caleb Omondi, and goalkeeper David Obasanjo, who joins from Kisumu All Stars.

The club parted ways with 18 players from last season, showing a clear ambition to refresh and compete for top honours.

Coach Peter Okidi expressed optimism: “The blend of fresh talent and experience gives us strength. With government support and our fans behind us, Shabana is ready to challenge.”

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A True Festival of Football and Culture

The inaugural Shabana Day was not just about the senior team. Festivities kicked off early with curtain-raiser matches such as Shabana Youth FC’s 2-0 win over Cardinal Otunga Mosocho Boys. Fans enjoyed merchandise stalls, cultural dances, and live performances — a vivid showcase of the local community’s passion for football.

Dignitaries including Nominated MP Irene Mayaka and philanthropist Dogo Khan, one of Shabana’s founders, attended to show their support, pledging to continue backing the club’s growth.

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Looking Ahead: Shabana’s Path to Glory

Last season, Shabana finished a proud fifth in the FKF Premier League with 53 points from 34 games — restoring pride among their loyal supporters. With heavy investment, a revamped squad, and solid government backing, the club aims to join Kenya’s football elite alongside giants like AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia.

Shabana’s Secretary General Elizaphan Kerama summed it up: “We are realigning Shabana with a vision not only national but global. The journey continues, and we invite fans to keep standing with the club.”

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What’s Next?

With the FKF Premier League season fast approaching, the stakes have never been higher for Shabana FC. Their opener against APS Bomet at the newly upgraded Gusii Stadium promises fireworks and high drama.

For the Tore Bobe faithful, Shabana Day was a reminder of resilience, community spirit, and the unyielding ambition fueling their football love.