Borji Cracks the Whip After Bandari’s Shock Defeat to Youth Team

Newly appointed Bandari FC head coach Mohamed Borji has wasted no time in stamping his authority after a surprising 2–3 defeat to the club’s youth team in a friendly match on Wednesday.

In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the Dockers’ camp, several senior players have been relegated to the youth side, which is set to make its debut in the third tier of Kenyan football this season. Among those demoted are Yusuf “Dele” Ali, Alvin Ngoto, Erickson Mulu, and Mohamed Barisa.

Borji confirmed that four players from the youth team will immediately be promoted to replace them in the senior squad — a clear signal that current form and discipline will outweigh experience under his leadership.

“If a youth team player wins playing time in the senior team, he will earn a contract,” Borji stated. “But if a senior team player fails to make the Matchday squad in the youth team, he will be released.”

The Moroccan tactician, who was appointed earlier this month on a one-year contract, is keen on restoring performance standards and discipline within the Mombasa-based side. He is assisted by fellow Moroccan Tarik Bendamou.

The 44-year-old former Wydad Casablanca striker replaced Ken Odhiambo, who departed following a difficult start to the 2025/26 FKF Premier League campaign.

So far, Borji has taken charge of one league match and three friendlies. His tenure began with the ODM @ 20 Tournament, where Bandari registered mixed results — a post-match penalties win over AFC Leopards followed by a 1–0 loss to Gor Mahia in the same event. The team then recorded a 0–0 league draw against AFC Leopards before suffering the 3–2 in-house friendly loss to their youth team.

Bandari FC currently sit eighth in the FKF Premier League table, with five points from a possible twelve.

Despite their strong financial backing from the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), the Dockers have never won a Kenyan Premier League title since their formation in 1986. Many commentators and fans have often linked this failure to complacency, suggesting that players are often too comfortable due to stable salaries and allowances, unlike their counterparts in less financially secure clubs.

While the decision to demote senior players may raise eyebrows, Borji’s message is unmistakable: no one is guaranteed a place at Bandari FC without consistent performance and commitment.

Fans are hoping that Borji’s no-nonsense approach marks the beginning of a new era at Bandari FC — one built on accountability, merit, and hunger from within.