The Common Pulse

By   Mutunga Tobbias | The Common Pulse/latest news/ Kenya/United States/Africa / September 2025.   Kenyan long-distance runner Sabastian Sawe has etched his name into the annals of marathon history with a commanding victory at the 2025 Berlin Marathon. Completing the race in 2:02:16, Sawe not only secured his third consecutive marathon win but also reaffirmed his status as a formidable force in the world of elite distance running. This triumph adds to his impressive resume, which includes victories at the 2024 Valencia Marathon and the 2025 London Marathon. A Glimpse into Sawe's Meteoric Rise Sabastian Sawe's journey to marathon stardom is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. Initially specializing in middle-distance events, Sawe transitioned to long-distance running with remarkable success. His debut marathon in Valencia in 2024 was nothing short of spectacular, as he clinched victory with a time of 2:02:05, marking the fifth-fastest time in history at that p...

  By   Mutunga Tobbias | The Common Pulse/latest news/ Kenya/United States/Africa / September 2025. There are sports stories that exist as chapters in a nation’s history, and then there is Kenya’s long, loud epic in athletics, a narrative that stretches from dusty school fields in the Rift Valley to the bright lights of global championships. By September 2025 that story had not only continued but acquired fresh, emphatic chapters: world titles in Tokyo, championship records, and a continued pipeline of talent that keeps Kenyan colours prominent on podiums. What follows is an evidence-backed celebration and analysis of why Kenyan athletics remains, in shape and substance, unrivaled in Africa, and how the events of September 2025 both reinforced and renewed that claim. Tokyo 2025: a month that underlined Kenyan excellence The 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo (13–21 September 2025) produced a concentrated burst of Kenyan triumphs that are worth pausing over. In th...

By Mutunga Tobbias | The Common Pulse/latest news/Asia/United States/Africa / September 2025 Luka Dončić, the Slovenian sensation, is back and more determined than ever. The 26-year-old Dallas Mavericks superstar has launched what fans and analysts are calling the “Luka Dončić Revenge Tour”,  a series of electrifying performances designed to silence doubters, dominate rivals, and assert his position among the NBA elite. Luka’s Journey: From Teen Prodigy to NBA Icon Luka Dončić’s rise in professional basketball has been meteoric. From his teenage years at Real Madrid, where he earned the EuroLeague MVP , to becoming a cornerstone for the Dallas Mavericks, Luka’s journey has been marked by moments of brilliance and occasional heartbreak. Despite facing playoff disappointments and criticisms over his defensive game and team consistency, Dončić has repeatedly shown his resilience. The 2025 season marks a pivotal chapter: Luka is not just playing, he’s on a mission for redemption. What...

 By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | September 2025 Match at a Glance In a commanding performance at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, Kenya outclassed Seychelles with a resounding 4–0 victory in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier – CAF Group F encounter. Goals flowed freely from Ryan Ogam (7′, 38′), Collins Sichenje (35′), and Michael Olunga (45+5′ penalty), sealing a dominant first-half showing. Lineups & Tactical Setup Harambee Stars (Kenya) Coach Benni McCarthy fielded a lineup featuring: Michael Olunga (captain) Ryan Ogam Collins Sichenje Duke Abuya Sylvester Owino , Lenkupae , among others, Seychelles Despite enduring a difficult qualification campaign with no points from seven matches, Seychelles took to the field with a youthful side led by coach Ralph Jean-Louis . The Goals: Timeline Minute Event 7′ Ryan Ogam opens scoring (assist by Abuya) – 1–0   35′ Collins Sichenje converts – 2–0   38′ Ryan Ogam doubles ...

By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | September 2025  Kenya is a global powerhouse in athletics, producing world-beating runners year after year. Among the most exciting events on the calendar is the Great Chepsaita Cross Country , a race that has quickly risen to prominence as not just a platform for raw talent, but also as one of the highest-paying athletics competitions in Kenya . The Home of Champions Chepsaita, a small town straddling Uasin Gishu and Nandi counties, is often referred to as the “home of champions” thanks to its long tradition of producing elite runners. Many legendary Kenyan athletes trace their roots to this region, making the race a symbolic return to where greatness begins. Why the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Stands Out While Kenya hosts several cross-country races, Chepsaita’s event is unique because of its rewarding prize structure. It attracts both seasoned elites and upcoming athletes eager to showcase their endurance on the challenging hilly terra...

By Mutunga Tobbias The Common Pulse | September 2025  Women’s football in Africa is experiencing a historic rise, and the CAF Women’s Championship Qualifiers have become the perfect stage where new talent meets continental ambition. This tournament is more than just a pathway to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, it is a celebration of determination, skill, and the unstoppable growth of the women’s game across the continent. A Stage for Emerging Talents The qualifiers spotlight teams that are often overlooked in the global football conversation. Nations like Burundi, Botswana, and Togo are now making headlines by pushing established powerhouses such as Nigeria, South Africa, Cameroon, and Ghana to their limits. Each match is a reminder that the gap is closing, and no team can be underestimated. Intensity, Rivalries, and National Pride The qualifiers are fiercely contested. Traditional rivalries, like Nigeria vs. Ghana or Cameroon vs. Ivory Coast, add extra drama, while newcome...

By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025  On a crisp, clear morning, Sydney played host to a landmark event: its debut as a World Marathon Major. Running across the iconic Harbour Bridge and finishing near the Opera House, the race drew a field that mirrored the city's grandeur, with Olympic champions Eliud Kipchoge and Sifan Hassan headlining the elite lineup. Despite fierce competition, Kipchoge, now 40, crossed the line in ninth place with a time of 2:08:31,   a solid performance on a demanding course, though not enough for a podium finish. Race Dynamics & Conditions The course was anything but flat. As one of the tougher Majors, it tested even the most seasoned runners. Kipchoge ran comfortably through the halfway mark but began to fall behind as the elevation and intensity of the field took their toll. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s Hailemaryam Kiros broke away to blaze across the line in 2:06:06 , setting a new course record and claiming Sydney’s historic fi...

 By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 Under the dazzling lights of Zurich’s Letzigrund Stadium, Kenya’s Emmanuel Wanyonyi orchestrated another masterpiece in his meteoric rise through the world of middle-distance running. As the Olympic champion entered the final straight, the tension was palpable, but with steely focus, he held off a fierce charge from Great Britain’s Max Burgin to cross the line in 1:42.37 , clinching his third consecutive Diamond League 800m title. It was a moment that blended elegance with raw athleticism. Race Breakdown: Strategy and Power The men’s 800m final was as tactical as it was electrifying. Wanyonyi took an aggressive approach, launching into the lead as they rounded the penultimate bend. Burgin, surging from mid-pack, narrowed the gap with each stride, setting the stage for a showdown on the homestretch. Yet, Wanyonyi dug deep, 2019 gold with everything on the line, and maintained enough composure and speed to secure the win in a tight...

By Tobias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 Kenya’s middle distance sensation Emmanuel Wanyonyi added yet another glittering chapter to his remarkable journey by storming to victory in the men’s 800m at the Zurich Diamond League. The Olympic champion displayed a trademark mix of patience, power, and poise to outclass a world-class field on Thursday night. Fresh off his triumph at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Wanyonyi came into Zurich with the weight of expectation. But rather than pressure, the 19-year-old looked energized, seizing control of the race in the final 200 meters. His decisive kick left his rivals trailing as he crossed the line to thunderous applause, affirming his dominance as the man to beat over two laps. A Star on the Rise Wanyonyi’s meteoric rise has been nothing short of breathtaking. From humble beginnings in Trans Nzoia County to global stardom, he has captivated fans with his fearless racing style and unshakable composure. With every victory, he strengthens K...

 By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 When Venus Williams walked back onto Arthur Ashe Stadium after a 16-month health hiatus, the crowd rose not just to greet a champion, but to honor a journey. At 45, the seven-time Grand Slam winner wasn’t chasing another trophy; she was chasing something far more personal, the joy of playing “healthy and free of pain.” A First-Round Exit, But a Lasting Impact Williams’ comeback match against Karolína Muchová ended in a first-round loss, but the scoreline was almost irrelevant. Fans showered her with applause, grateful to see her back on court after whispers that her career might already have reached its quiet conclusion. The emotion was palpable, Venus herself held back tears, speaking of the privilege of being able to step onto the court again without her body betraying her. Redefining Victory For Venus, this return wasn’t about defying age or rewriting record books. It was about resilience. Her words ,  “healthy and free of ...

By Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 The stage is set for an unforgettable African Nations Championship (CHAN) final. On Saturday, August 30, 2025 , football fans will flock to Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya , to witness a historic clash between Morocco and Madagascar . Morocco: A Legacy of Strength Morocco enters the final riding high after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Senegal in the semi-finals. Known for their tactical discipline and flair, the Atlas Lions have consistently impressed at CHAN tournaments, blending experience with a new generation of talent. Fans will be hoping for another display of their trademark combination of skill, speed, and resilience. Madagascar: The Underdog Story Madagascar’s journey to the final has been nothing short of extraordinary. After a nail-biting 1–0 win against Sudan in extra time, the Malagasy squad has captured hearts across the continent. This marks Madagascar’s first-ever CHAN final appearance , signaling a remar...

 By Tobias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025    The Match That History Awaits On Tuesday, 26 August 2025 , Madagascar and Sudan faced off in a semi-final showdown at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam , vying for a place in the CHAN final, a stage neither nation had reached before. Kick-off was at 17:30 EAT , a time packed with excitement and expectation. Clash of Contrasts: Styles, Histories, and Ambitions Madagascar , the island underdogs, relied on fluid, possession-based football and exceptional team cohesion. Their quarter-final win over hosts Kenya on penalties was a psychological boost that fortified their belief. Sudan , known as the Falcons of Jediane, entered the semi-final with a disciplined, pragmatic approach, seasoned in penalty dramas and tough group fixtures. They had shown mental fortitude in defeating Algeria in the quarters via shootout. Historical Context & High Stakes This was the second CHAN meeting between them,  Madaga...

 By; Mwaniki Justin The Common Pulse | August 2025 Kenya’s sporting landscape is about to change forever with the near completion of the Talanta Sports City , a state-of-the-art, 60,000-seater stadium in Nairobi. Slated for completion by December 2025 , the facility is not just another stadium project, it represents Kenya’s bold ambition to become a continental hub for world-class sporting events. A Vision Realized Talanta Sports City is the crown jewel of Kenya’s sports infrastructure development. First announced as part of Kenya’s bid to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) , the stadium is designed to meet FIFA and CAF international standards. Its modern facilities will include: A 60,000-capacity bowl-style arena High-tech media and broadcast centers VIP lounges and hospitality suites Player recovery and training zones An integrated transport system for ease of access For years, Kenya has faced criticism over inadequate stadium facilities. With CAF citing...

 By; Mwaniki Justin The Common Pulse | August 2025 Kenya’s hopes of bouncing back in the ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League A suffered a heavy blow on August 24, 2025 , as they went down to Qatar by 8 wickets in a decisive encounter. The result not only underlined Kenya’s struggles with consistency but also pushed them further away from regaining their once-dominant status on the international stage. Kenya’s Bright Start With the Bat Opting to bat first, Kenya showed promise at the crease. Dhiren Gondaria set the tone with a fluent 42 , while veteran Rakep Patel stabilized the innings with a composed 52 . The standout knock came from Francis Mutua , whose gritty 61 helped push Kenya’s total to a respectable 242 runs . It was a team effort that hinted at revival, but as has often been the case, Kenya failed to convert a good batting platform into a defendable match-winning score. Qatar’s Commanding Chase Qatar’s response was nothing short of emphatic. Imal Liyanage anchored...

 By; Mutunga Tobbias The Common Pulse | August 2025 The African Nations Championship (CHAN) Trophy has officially landed at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) radio station , marking another milestone in the build-up to the 2024/2025 tournament. For football fans, this is not just a ceremonial stop, it is a reminder of Kenya’s growing role in African football and the excitement that comes with hosting continental events. A Symbolic Arrival The trophy’s arrival at KBC was more than just a media event. As the national broadcaster, KBC holds a historic place in showcasing Kenyan sports, from Harambee Stars’ memorable victories to local league highlights. The CHAN Trophy tour brings the competition closer to the people, allowing fans to feel part of the journey before the first whistle is blown. Draped in continental prestige, the trophy’s presence at KBC reflects the broadcaster’s commitment to being the heartbeat of football coverage. For decades, millions of Kenyans have tune...

By; Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 The African Nations Championship (CHAN) has always stood apart from the continent’s premier tournament, the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). While AFCON celebrates Africa’s best talent regardless of where they play, CHAN is unique, it exclusively features players plying their trade in domestic leagues. This makes the tournament not just a celebration of football, but also a mirror of the health and strength of African club systems. But now, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is plotting a new chapter. Behind closed doors, discussions are intensifying on how to raise CHAN’s visibility, expand its prize pool, and connect it more directly with global football pathways . Why the Expansion Push Matters CHAN has grown steadily since its inception in 2009, but it has often been overshadowed by AFCON. Prize money has been modest, media coverage uneven, and international recognition limited. For many players, the tournament is still t...

 By; Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 Al-Nassr has pulled off another headline-grabbing transfer, confirming the signing of Kingsley Coman from Bayern Munich on a three-year deal worth around €30 million , with performance-related bonuses potentially raising the total to €35 million . But beyond the money, the decisive factor in this move wasn’t just financial muscle, it was Cristiano Ronaldo himself . Ronaldo the Recruiter Reports indicate that Ronaldo personally reached out to Coman, encouraging him to join Al-Nassr and reassuring him about the ambitious project underway in Riyadh. This personal touch from one of football’s greatest icons was a game-changer, tipping the scales in Al-Nassr’s favor despite interest from European clubs. For Coman, the chance to play alongside Ronaldo at this stage of his career offers both a unique challenge and a once-in-a-lifetime partnership. Few players can resist the allure of teaming up with a five-time Ballon d’Or winner who c...

By; Mwaniki Justin The Common Pulse | August 2025 Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars , pulled off a thrilling win against Zambia, sending a strong signal about their rising form and determination. This victory not only boosts team morale but also reshapes regional football dynamics, with Kenya now being seen as a serious contender in upcoming continental campaigns. A Win That Matters For years, encounters between Kenya and Zambia have been fierce and unpredictable, with Zambia often having the upper hand thanks to their pedigree in African football. Kenya’s win is significant because it shows a maturing team capable of breaking psychological barriers and delivering results under pressure. The Stars showcased improved tactical discipline, sharper attacking transitions, and a backline that stood firm when tested. Standout Performances Several players shone on the pitch, from the midfield generals who controlled the tempo to the clinical forwards who seized their chanc...

By; Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025  The Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, roared to life today as hosts Kenya’s Harambee Stars faced off against Zambia’s Chipolopolo in the final Group A fixture of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) . Context Before Kickoff Kenya came into the match flying high, two wins and a draw already securing a spot in the quarterfinals. Zambia, on the other hand, were playing for pride after a disappointing run of results left them at the bottom of the group. The match carried historical weight: Zambia has traditionally dominated this rivalry, boasting 21 wins in 35 encounters. But Kenya, backed by a passionate home crowd, looked determined to flip the script and underline their resurgence on the continental stage. Match Atmosphere From dawn, fan zones in Nairobi, from Uhuru Park to Jacaranda Grounds, were filled with red, black, and green. Inside Kasarani, the chants of “Stars! Stars!” echoed with a playoff-like int...

 By; Tobbias Mutunga The Common Pulse | August 2025 In a stunning display of skill and composure, a 10-year-old chess prodigy has etched her name into the history books by becoming the youngest female player ever to defeat a Grandmaster in official competition. The match, held during an international tournament, saw the young champion showcase exceptional strategic vision and fearless play , dismantling her opponent’s position with a series of precise, calculated moves. Spectators and analysts alike were left in awe as the game unfolded, proof that age is no barrier when talent meets relentless dedication. Her victory is more than a personal milestone; it’s a groundbreaking moment for women in chess , challenging stereotypes and inspiring a new generation of girls to take up the sport. The achievement also highlights the importance of nurturing young talent through accessible training programs and competitive opportunities. In her post-match remarks, the prodigy credited her succ...