Sofapaka defeated Naivas 2-0 on aggregate to maintain their Kenyan Premier League status after a fiercely contested two-leg promotion/relegation playoff that concluded Sunday at the Dandora Stadium.
Andre Kalama's goal in first-half injury time gave Batoto ba Mungu the crucial victory, forcing Naivas FC to endure yet another excruciating wait for top-flight football.
Sofapaka wrung out a narrow 1-0 win in the first leg at the Police Sacco Stadium last week, putting their survival campaign on track.
On Sunday, they completed the task to guarantee their spot in the 18-team Premier League fixtures, which kick off next month.
Alongside, debutant Mara Sugar and the returning Mathare United, they will be up against powerhouses in champions Gor Mahia, FKF cup champions Kenya Police, AFC Leopards, Shabana, Tusker, Ulinzi Stars, Kakamega Homeboyz, Bidco United, Talanta, Nairobi City Stars, KCB FC, Murang'a Seal, Kariobangi Sharks, Bandari and Posta Rangers.
A visibly elated head coach Ezekiel Akwana showered his gallant charges with praises for their heroic efforts in the do-or-die encounter.
“It was a tough match but I am happy we eventually achieved our target — to remain in the KPL. The thought of slumping down to the lower tier was quite frightening. We have survived the axe. We hope to perform better next season to avoid this scenario,” Akwana said.
“Naivas posed a tough challenge. We had to rely heavily on experience and individual brilliance to beat them. We put in a commendable performance in both legs. The enormous spirit I witnessed today left me thrilled.”
It was a calculated move.
“I sat the boys down and emphasised the importance of scoring early to reduce the pressure in the second half. It made our work a lot easier. We spent the better part of the second half thwarting moves by our opponents towards our area,” he said.
Meanwhile, Naivas head coach Collins 'Korea' Omondi rued 'juvenile errors' in the playoffs.
“We made mistakes we could have avoided," said Omondi. "It's too late now. All we can do is give it another try next season."
Sofapaka found themselves in an undesirable survival duel after wrapping up 16th in the Premier League last season.
Naivas secured a playoff spot after finishing third in the National Super League, behind winners Mara and Mathare United.
