NE Group partners with Betika to launch Defender game across Kenya and beyond

NE Group has entered into a strategic partnership with Betika, a prominent sports betting platform in Kenya, to introduce the crash game "Defender" to new markets in Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This collaboration is expected to broaden the game's reach and appeal among sports enthusiasts in the region.

Defender, a football-themed game launched in 2022, is said to combine real-time decision-making with strategic gameplay. Players are required to determine the optimal moment to cash out before the opposing team scores, a concept that aims to add excitement and engage users in a high-adrenaline experience. According to reports, the game has been updated this year, and Betika will now be offering this enhanced version to its user base.

Betika’s Group Chief Product Officer, Peter Stagles, reportedly highlighted the game's relevance to Africa's strong football culture, emphasizing that integrating Defender into Betika's offerings enhances their current portfolio and resonates well with their football-focused audience. The game's ability to offer a fast-paced and immersive experience is said to align with Betika's commitment to innovative content.

NE Group, a well-known B2B iGaming software provider, also announced previous advancements, including a partnership with Sporting Solutions in mid-2024 to integrate sophisticated odds and risk management technology into its sportsbook platform. Additionally, NE Group strengthened its leadership by appointing Vishal Vijay Zend as Head of Product earlier in the year, focusing on driving innovation within the iGaming sector.

Imran Bukhari, CEO of NE Group, is believed to have expressed excitement over expanding Defender's presence through the partnership with Betika. He emphasized the game’s appeal to football fans and its dynamic cash-out feature, which has been designed to elevate the gaming experience for players.