A video captured on Saturday, September 20, 2025, showed fans of Mogadishu City Club kicking and trampling the Kenyan flag during their CAF Champions League clash against Kenya Police FC at Nyayo National Stadium.
In one clip, a fan dressed in traditional Somali attire snatched a Kenyan flag from a Police FC supporter and threw it to the ground. The footage quickly went viral, sparking outrage among Kenyans.
On Wednesday, September 24, Mogadishu City Club issued an official statement condemning the incident and apologising to the Kenyan government and people.
“On behalf of Mogadishu City Club, we strongly condemn this act and extend our deepest apologies to the Government and People of Kenya. Such behaviour has no place in football or in the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship that this competition represents,” the club said.
The Somali side pledged to cooperate with relevant authorities and reminded supporters, especially youth, of the importance of respecting national symbols.
Kenya’s National Flag, Emblems and Names Act (Cap. 99) protects the flag from disrespect, with offenders liable for a fine of up to Sh5,000, six months’ imprisonment, or both. Authorities have not yet confirmed if charges will be filed.
On the pitch, Kenya Police FC defeated Mogadishu City Club 3–1 in the first leg, with goals from Eric Zakayo, Edward Omondi, and David Simiyu. The teams are scheduled to meet again on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium for the return leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary round.
