Nairobi, Kenya – Somali champions Mogadishu City Club (MCC) have issued a public apology after a group of their supporters were filmed kicking the Kenyan national flag during their CAF Champions League first-leg match against Kenya Police FC at Nyayo National Stadium on September 20.
The incident, captured on video and widely circulated online, triggered outrage among Kenyans, with football fans, civil society groups, and commentators calling for firm disciplinary measures against those involved. Many condemned the act as a blatant show of disrespect to Kenya’s sovereignty and a violation of the principles of sportsmanship.
In response, MCC moved quickly to distance itself from the conduct, labeling it “unfortunate” and “unacceptable.” The club emphasized that the actions were carried out by a small group of individuals and do not reflect the values of the team or its broader fan base.
“During the CAF Champions League first-leg match between Mogadishu City Club and Kenya Police FC, an unfortunate incident occurred in which a few young fans were seen kicking the Kenyan national flag,” the statement read.
“On behalf of Mogadishu City Club, we strongly condemn this act and extend our deepest apologies to the Government and People of Kenya. Such behavior has no place in football or in the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship that this competition represents. We fully support any appropriate action by the Kenyan authorities against those involved, and we urge our fans—especially the younger generation—to always respect all nations, their flags, and their people.”
The Somali club further underscored that football is meant to foster “unity, love, and mutual respect,” urging fans from both countries to use the game as a platform for peace and community building.
The Kenyan Football Federation and security officials are reportedly reviewing the incident. While no official sanctions have been announced, analysts say the Confederation of African Football (CAF) could investigate, given its strict rules on respecting national symbols and maintaining decorum at continental matches.
The return leg will take place this weekend at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium, as Somalia currently lacks a CAF-approved venue to host international matches. Both sides are under pressure to ensure that the decisive clash is remembered for football rather than controversy.