NE Group has decided to kick things up a notch, announcing a partnership with Kenya’s popular sports betting platform, Betika, to launch Defender—a football-themed game that gives fans an extra thrill of the game.
Known for its mix of tension and strategy, Defender challenges players to cash out at the right moment, holding their breath until the very last second before an opponent’s goal might ruin everything.
When Football and Gaming Collide
Since its debut in 2022, Defender has become a fan favourite for those who crave more than the usual match-watching experience. In this crash game, players face a critical decision: when to cash out before their luck—and the game—runs out.
With Betika on board, football fans across Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo will now have access to an upgraded version of Defender, released earlier this year. Expect bigger thrills, more tension, and a whole lot of adrenaline.
NE Group’s CEO, Imran Bukhari, captures the game’s appeal: “Defender continues to be a fan favourite thanks to its football-inspired, fun experience that connects with the inner sports fan. Giving players the power to cash out has shifted the dynamic and given an increased adrenaline hit to the user. Partnering with Betika means we can expand the game’s reach across an important territory for the business. Defender not only adds a new layer of excitement to their offerings but also reflects our commitment to delivering engaging and innovative gaming experiences.”
Betika and the Art of Keeping Fans Happy
For Betika, Defender hits the sweet spot with its football-loving crowd. Football is the undisputed champion of sports in Africa, and Defender taps right into that passion by putting players in control, letting them take on the field—or at least feel like they are.
Peter Stagles, Betika’s Group Chief Product Officer, is as excited as the players: “We are thrilled to integrate NE Group’s Defender into our platform. Football is the number one sport in Africa, and this partnership enhances our already excellent offering. NE Group has cleverly designed a game that will instantly resonate with our football-mad audience, thanks to its fast-paced nature and its ability to place players at the heart of the action. This addition underscores our commitment to providing innovative and engaging content for our players.”
With Defender now live on Betika, East African players can look forward to more than just a game—it’s an experience that merges strategy, quick thinking, and pure love for football. For NE Group, this move opens doors into new African markets, while Betika gets a golden ticket to deliver fresh excitement to its fans. The beautiful game just got a little more intense, and fans across East Africa are ready for kickoff.
