In the Safaricom Chapa Dimba matches held on Saturday at Kiendege Grounds in Nyamira and Moi Stadium Kisumu, thrilling football action unfolded.
Nyaguku FC Triumphs in Nyamira County
Nyaguku FC from Nyamira delivered an astonishing performance, securing the Safaricom Chapa Dimba Nyamira County title in the boys’ category with a resounding 6-0 victory over St. Peter’s Nyaisa. Kevin Mayore led the charge with a remarkable hat trick, while Kevin Orina and Emmanuel Bongoye each contributed a goal.
Obunga FC Claims Victory in Kisumu County
In Kisumu County, Obunga FC emerged as the new county champions after an intense battle that culminated in a 4-3 penalty shootout against the reigning champions, Manyatta United FC.
Obunga FC, despite trailing by a goal in the first half, executed a remarkable comeback in the second half, levelling the match and ultimately leading it to a thrilling penalty shootout.
John Paul Omeka, Captain of Nyaguku FC, expressed his gratitude to Safaricom for bringing Chapa Dimba to grassroots communities. He emphasized their determination to excel in the upcoming matches and called for continued fan support.
Rigoma Starlets Clinch Girls’ Category
Rigoma Starlets secured the County Championship in the girls’ category by defeating Gekomoni Girls 3-2 in a fiercely contested match.
Seventeen-year-old Sharon Kemuma shone brightly, scoring two crucial goals for Rigoma Starlets, while Linet Achieng displayed her prowess with a double strike for Gekomoni Girls.
Nixon Obiero, the Head Coach of Rigoma Starlets, expressed the challenges they faced in this year’s Chapa Dimba but celebrated their victory, highlighting their motivation to succeed in the upcoming playoffs.
Plateau Queens Reign in Kisumu County:
The reigning national champions, Plateau Queens, continued their dominant performance in Kisumu County by defeating Manyatta Ladies 2-1 to claim the County Championship in the girls’ category.
The winning teams in both the boys’ and girls’ categories earned KES 75,000 each, with the runners-up receiving KES 30,000. Notably, top scorers, best goalkeepers, and the Most Valuable Players (MVPs) from both boys’ and girls’ teams were also recognized with cash prizes.
Additionally, the MVPs were awarded TVET scholarships to pursue courses of their choice, courtesy of Safaricom and M-PESA Foundations.
Throughout the Nyanza region, a total of 530 teams participated in grassroots games, consisting of 412 boys’ teams and 118 girls’ teams, all competing from the ward level.