MOGADISHU, Somalia – Mogadishu City Club has apologised after a section of its supporters were filmed desecrating the Kenyan national flag during their CAF Champions League preliminaries first-leg clash against Kenya Police FC in Nairobi.
The Somali side issued a statement condemning the actions, which sparked outrage in Kenya after the footage circulated online.
The video showed a group of fans laying the flag on the ground and stepping on it moments after the club’s 3-1 defeat at Nyayo National Stadium on September 20.
“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 statement read.
The club pledged to support any action taken by Kenyan authorities against those involved, urging its supporters to embrace respect and peace.
“Football is a game of unity, love, and mutual respect, and we call on all supporters to uphold these values and promote harmony in our communities,” it added.
Kenya’s National Flag, Emblems and Names Act protects the flag from insult or abuse, with offenders liable to a fine of up to Sh5,000, six months in prison, or both.
The incident overshadowed what had been a spirited contest on the pitch. Kenya Police FC secured a vital first-leg advantage with goals from Eric Zakayo, Edward Omondi and David Simiyu, while Mogadishu managed a late consolation.
The two teams will meet again this Sunday at Nyayo Stadium, with Police looking to seal progression to the next round and Mogadishu City seeking redemption—both in football and in the eyes of Kenyan supporters.