In a thrilling final of the Sakaja Super Cup Second Edition, defending champions Githurai All Stars (GAS) emerged victorious, defeating Kawasaki FC 2-1. The high-stakes match was held in Dandora, where fans were treated to a nail-biting showdown.
Kawasaki FC struck first in the 17th minute, setting the tone with an early lead. However, GAS turned the game around in the second half, equalizing in the 53rd minute before sealing their victory with a decisive goal in the 83rd minute.
The tournament, which attracted over 780 teams from Nairobi’s 85 wards, has been lauded as a transformative platform for nurturing grassroots talent. Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed praised the initiative during the finals, calling it “the best way to nurture talent from the grassroots.”
“We commend Governor Sakaja for this incredible effort. The sheer talent we’ve witnessed here is remarkable. We will harness this potential to elevate these players to the next level,” said Mohammed, urging other county governors to adopt similar programs.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, the brain behind the tournament, reiterated his commitment to youth empowerment through sports. He congratulated the winning team, Githurai All Stars, who also triumphed in last year’s inaugural edition, and Kawasaki FC for their strong performance.
“The winners have taken home Ksh 3 million, while the runners-up will receive Ksh 2 million. This game has been nothing short of electrifying,” Sakaja said.
The Governor also announced ongoing construction of stadiums like Kihumbuini and Woodley, which will be ready for next year’s tournament. “Next year, we’ll have better venues, more teams, and an expanded tournament. This is about showcasing talent and proving that sports can provide a livelihood,” he affirmed.
The Sakaja Super Cup has not only spotlighted grassroots football but also laid the foundation for a brighter future for Nairobi’s youth. With a promise to include more sports disciplines in future editions, Governor Sakaja continues to champion sports as a tool for transformation.
As Githurai All Stars celebrate their hard-fought victory, the tournament leaves a legacy of hope and opportunity, proving that football truly unites and empowers communities.
