The Best Apps to Watch Football Online in Kenya
Football is the most popular sport in Kenya, with millions of fans supporting both international leagues and local teams.
In this article, we will explore the best apps available for streaming football in Kenya, including both global giants and locally relevant services.
The popularity of international leagues such as the English Premier League, La Liga, and the UEFA Champions League, alongside domestic competitions like the Kenyan Premier League, means that Kenyans are always looking for reliable platforms to watch their favorite teams in action.
However, many fans face challenges such as limited access to cable television or expensive pay-TV packages. As mobile internet becomes more affordable and widely available, streaming football online has become a viable solution.
1. Traditional Apps to Watch Football
ESPN
ESPN is a global sports streaming service that provides coverage of major football leagues from around the world. With an extensive catalog that includes top leagues such as the English Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and Bundesliga, ESPN is a go-to choice for many Kenyan football fans.
The app offers both live streaming and on-demand content, making it a great option for fans who may not be able to watch matches live. ESPN also provides a wide range of sports beyond football, which means users can enjoy other sporting events during the off-season.
Pros:
• High-quality streaming of top football leagues.
• Additional sports coverage for diverse interests.
• Easy-to-use interface.
Cons:
• Subscription fees may be a consideration for some users.
• Requires a strong internet connection for high-quality streaming.
DAZN
DAZN is a subscription-based streaming service that focuses on providing live sports coverage, including football. DAZN has gained popularity due to its affordable subscription model and comprehensive coverage of both international and local football leagues. The app allows fans to stream matches on a range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
With access to major competitions such as the English Premier League, Champions League, and even regional leagues, DAZN is an excellent option for Kenyan football fans looking for an all-in-one sports app.
Pros:
• Affordable pricing with high-quality streaming.
• Broad coverage of football leagues and tournaments.
• Easy to navigate and use.
Cons:
• Limited availability in some regions (check availability in Kenya).
• Some leagues or events may require additional subscription packages.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is a popular option for sports fans around the world, offering access to several sports networks that broadcast football matches. With its flexible subscription plans, YouTube TV allows Kenyans to watch major football leagues such as the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A. It’s perfect for fans who want a cost-effective streaming option and are already familiar with YouTube’s platform.
Additionally, YouTube TV offers features like cloud DVR, allowing users to record matches they can’t watch live and watch them later.
Pros:
• Offers access to major sports channels.
• Cloud DVR feature for recording matches.
• User-friendly interface and wide device compatibility.
Cons:
• Subscription fees can add up if combined with other services.
• May require a reliable internet connection for uninterrupted streaming.
Sling TV
Sling TV offers a wide selection of channels that provide live sports coverage, including football matches. With packages like Sling Orange and Sling Blue, fans can access networks like ESPN, TNT, and FS1, which broadcast major football leagues.
Though Sling TV is primarily a US-based service, it is accessible to international audiences, including Kenyans. However, users may need to use a VPN service to access Sling TV if it’s unavailable directly in Kenya.
Pros:
• Offers access to major football leagues through sports channels.
• Multiple package options for flexibility.
• Streaming on multiple devices.
Cons:
• VPN may be required for Kenyan users.
• Subscriptions can become costly when adding multiple channels.
2. Apps Popular in Kenya for Football Streaming
Showmax Pro
Showmax Pro is a subscription-based streaming service that has become one of the most popular ways to watch sports in Kenya. This app combines entertainment, series, and sports content, making it a one-stop shop for various types of viewers. Showmax Pro offers live sports streaming of the English Premier League, La Liga, and more. Additionally, it provides a local touch by broadcasting the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) for fans of the local game.
Showmax Pro also allows users to enjoy high-definition streams with minimal buffering, especially for those with fast internet connections.
Pros:
• Includes both local and international football leagues.
• High-quality streaming.
• Offers additional entertainment content for subscribers.
Cons:
• Requires a subscription.
• Limited availability in some areas without a strong internet connection.
Safaricom’s Bamba TV
Bamba TV is an app provided by Kenya’s largest mobile service provider, Safaricom. The service allows users to stream football matches and other content. Bamba TV focuses on making content accessible to Kenyans through its easy-to-use platform. It provides coverage of the Kenyan Premier League, international football leagues, and major tournaments.
Bamba TV has become a favorite for many due to its integration with Safaricom’s mobile services, making it accessible to millions of users across the country.
Pros:
• Strong local relevance, with Kenyan football content.
• Easy integration with Safaricom services.
• Affordable options for Safaricom users.
Cons:
• Limited international football coverage compared to global platforms.
• Not available outside of Kenya.
Zuku TV
Zuku TV is another key player in Kenya’s streaming market. Offering both TV and mobile app-based streaming, Zuku has become a household name for many sports fans in Kenya. The app provides access to local and international football leagues, including the Kenyan Premier League and European leagues like the EPL and La Liga.
Zuku TV’s app is well-regarded for its high-quality streaming and ability to provide content with minimal buffering, even during peak usage hours.
Pros:
• Affordable subscription plans.
• Offers both local and international football.
• Strong streaming capabilities on mobile.
Cons:
• Limited availability in some parts of Kenya.
• Requires a subscription.
K24 TV App
K24 TV is a local TV station that offers an app for streaming football matches in Kenya. The app covers local football leagues and some international matches, making it a good option for fans who prefer free streaming options. While it doesn’t have as wide a selection as the paid platforms, K24 TV does offer access to popular tournaments and matches.
Pros:
• Free access to local football leagues.
• Simple to use.
• Local relevance, with a focus on Kenyan football.
Cons:
• Limited access to international leagues.
• Ad-supported, which can be distracting.
3. African Football Apps
SuperSport
SuperSport is one of the most widely recognized sports streaming services in Africa. It provides coverage of major football leagues, including the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and the CAF Champions League. SuperSport’s app is optimized for African audiences and offers content in a variety of languages, making it accessible to Kenyan fans.
Pros:
• Comprehensive coverage of African and international football.
• High-quality streaming with minimal buffering.
• Affordable subscription plans tailored to the African market.
Cons:
• Some premium content requires additional subscription packages.
• Available mainly in certain African regions.
Africamax
Africamax is another regional app that focuses on providing African sports content, including football. It covers various leagues and tournaments from across the continent and provides streaming for matches involving Kenyan teams in regional competitions like the CECAFA Cup.
Pros:
• Focuses on African football, including local leagues.
• Regional relevance with extensive content.
• Free access to some football events.
Cons:
• Limited access to major international leagues.
• Requires an internet connection with good bandwidth.
4. Betting Apps with Football Streaming
Betway Kenya
Betway Kenya is widely known for offering online sports betting, but it also provides live streaming for various football matches. The app offers coverage of both international leagues and domestic competitions, including the Kenyan Premier League.
For fans who enjoy betting while watching the game, Betway Kenya is an excellent option to combine both activities in one app.
Pros:
• Live streaming of various football leagues.
• Integrated with betting features.
• Available to Kenyan users.
Cons:
• Requires a betting account.
• May be subject to internet restrictions in certain regions.
Sportpesa
Sportpesa is another popular betting app in Kenya that offers football streaming. While primarily a betting platform, Sportpesa offers live streams of various football matches, especially those involving African teams and local competitions. The app also offers excellent odds for fans interested in placing bets during live matches.
Pros:
• Offers both football betting and live streaming.
• Provides coverage of local and international leagues.
• Easy access for Kenyan users.
Cons:
• Only available to users with betting accounts.
• Can be distracting for users who want to focus on watching the game.
5. Free Streaming Options
Live Soccer TV
Live Soccer TV is a free platform that aggregates information on where to watch live football matches. The app provides details about which channels or streaming platforms are broadcasting specific matches, including local sports bars and TV networks in Kenya.
Pros:
• Free access to football match schedules.
• Information on free streaming options.
• Useful for fans who want to know where they can watch games.
Cons:
• Doesn’t offer direct streaming—just details on where to watch.
• Requires an internet connection to access the schedule.
Red Bull TV
Red Bull TV is a free app that provides streaming for various sports, including football. While its primary focus is on extreme sports, Red Bull TV also covers major football events, especially tournaments and special matches.
Pros:
• Free streaming of select football events.
• High-quality video streaming.
• Easy-to-use interface.
Cons:
• Limited football content compared to other platforms.
• Only available for certain events.
6. How to Choose the Right App
When choosing an app to stream football online in Kenya, there are several factors to consider:
Factors to Consider:
• Subscription Fees: Some apps require a paid subscription, while others are free. Choose based on your budget.
• Content Availability: If you’re a fan of local leagues or international football, ensure the app offers the content you’re interested in.
• Device Compatibility: Make sure the app is compatible with your device, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or smart TV.
• Internet Connection: Streaming requires a good internet connection. Be sure to have reliable data or Wi-Fi to avoid buffering.
Internet Connection in Kenya:
Kenya has seen significant improvements in internet infrastructure, but speeds can vary, especially in rural areas. When streaming, ensure you have a stable and fast connection for the best experience. Opt for Wi-Fi or 4G data plans for uninterrupted viewing.
Conclusion
Kenya’s love for football is matched by the growing number of streaming apps that cater to the needs of fans. From traditional apps like ESPN and DAZN to local solutions like Showmax Pro and Safaricom’s Bamba TV, there are plenty of options for Kenyans to enjoy football, no matter their budget or internet speed.
Whether you’re looking to watch local matches or European football giants, these apps offer a range of features that bring the game right to your fingertips.
Explore these options, pick the one that best fits your needs, and never miss out on the action again!