The former AFC Leopards defender has revealed whether he will retire after guiding Kenya Police to their first ever FKF Premier League title.
Veteran defender and Harambee Stars stalwart David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng has spoken out on his future in football after captaining Kenya Police FC to their historic first-ever FKF Premier League title with a narrow 1-0 win over Shabana FC last Sunday.
The victory, secured at Machakos Stadium, came with one game to spare and ended Gor Mahia’s reign, who had won the last two league titles.
It also marked a remarkable personal milestone for Ochieng, who had not lifted a league title since 2012 with Tusker FC.
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“I am finally a champion with Police in 2025, a whole 13 years since I won one with Tusker and I am very grateful,” Ochieng told Tata Sports, visibly emotional after the final whistle.
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Reflecting on the journey to the title, Ochieng highlighted the high-pressure nature of the 2024/25 season. With just one game left, the battle for survival in the bottom half of the league remains intense.
“That game was tough. Everyone knew the top 10 had secured safety, but the bottom eight — we still do not know who could go out or stay up. So it has been a tough season,” he explained.
“Being champions shows we have worked hard and fought to achieve this.”
Ochieng credited the transformation of the team to head coach Etienne Ndayiragije, who took over from Anthony ‘Modo’ Kimani in December. The Burundian tactician was instrumental in reshaping the team’s approach and instilling belief during a turbulent period.
“Ndayiragije came in when we were at the bottom. He realised we needed to attack more and made us believe that against every team, we were capable — even though it was difficult.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of former coaches Salim Babu and Kimani, stating they laid the groundwork for this season’s success. Babu led Police to a strong campaign last year, and Kimani guided them through an impressive run in the CAF Confederation Cup qualifiers.
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Cheche Dedicates Win to Mum
Away from the pitch, Ochieng’s triumph carried deep emotional meaning. He dedicated the league title to his mother, who raised him after his father left.
“She has been both my mother and father. I am grateful, and she deserves this.”
Despite the title being secured, Ochieng emphasized that the team’s focus now shifts to their final match — a faceoff against dethroned champions Gor Mahia.
“We want to focus on beating Gor Mahia first, and then we will know. It is possible. Let us see what will happen.”
While Ochieng has not announced an official retirement date, his statements suggest he is beginning to consider life after football — though his current form and leadership suggest he still has more to offer.