On Sunday, September 21, 2025, football passion turned into chaos in Kenya. During the much-anticipated Premier League match between Manchester City and Arsenal, a group of students went too far. The game ended in a 1-1 draw, with Erling Haaland scoring for Manchester City and Gabriel Martinelli equalizing for Arsenal.
But in Kericho County, located in western Kenya, the result was overshadowed by shocking events at Litein Boys’ High School.
Why Did Students Burn Their School?
According to reports by Kenyans, the students were eager to watch the Man City vs Arsenal match in a common hall where they usually watch football. However, school administrators denied them access to the broadcast.
Anger quickly boiled over. Instead of accepting the decision, the students stormed the premises, set parts of the school on fire, and destroyed dormitories and classrooms. By Monday morning, the school had been closed because of the extensive damage.
Not the First Time in Kenya
This incident is not isolated. Kenya has witnessed similar cases where students burned their schools after being denied access to football. In May 2025, students at Mbale High School set their school ablaze under almost identical circumstances.
Education authorities in Kenya have often raised concerns about students’ discipline and the impact of football rivalries. The repeated incidents highlight how the love for the Premier League has deeply penetrated youth culture in East Africa.
Football’s Strong Grip on Students
The Premier League is the most followed football league in Kenya and across Africa. Rivalries between teams like Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United often stir heated emotions among fans.
For many students, watching the games is more than just entertainment—it is part of their identity and weekend tradition. Unfortunately, when denied the chance, some resort to violence and destruction.
What Happens Next?
The Kenyan Ministry of Education has not yet announced whether the students involved will face punishment, but it is expected that investigations will follow. Parents are also likely to be called in to discuss damages and safety measures for the future.
The school will need major repairs before reopening, raising questions about how such incidents can be prevented. Some education experts suggest that instead of bans, schools could create controlled programs where students can watch important matches responsibly.
Football and Discipline in Africa
The Students Burn School Man City Arsenal case once again shows the challenges schools face in balancing discipline with students’ love for football. While football unites millions around the world, in this case, it has divided a school community and left behind destruction.
