The first edition of the Dola Super Cup Coast Region Tournament came to an exciting end over the weekend at Mombasa Sports Club in Mombasa County, offering memorable moments and showcasing the best football talent from all coastal counties.
Kilifi emerged the champions in an action-packed final against Mombasa A, securing the title and the grand prize of one million shillings.
The grand finale was an exciting match between Kilifi and Mombasa A. Both teams showcased exceptional skill and determination throughout the game, which ended in a 1-1 draw after regulation time. A penalty shootout then decided the tournament.
In a display of composure and precision, Kilifi prevailed over Mombasa A with a 4-3 victory in the shootout. This hard-fought win crowned Kilifi as the champions of the Dola Super Cup Coast Region Tournament 2024.
Kilifi Captain, Michael Haro, praised the Dola group for its determined commitment to creating and nurturing talent in the country.
“We are thrilled with our victory and being crowned the Coast region champions. Undoubtedly, it was a tense and tough game as our opponents were also strong but we gave it all as we had aimed while coming to Mombasa to only return to Kilifi as the champion,” said the captain.
The tournament united communities from the coastal counties through a common event, providing a platform for young football players to showcase their talents, perfect their skills and achieve personal growth.
Mombasa A was awarded Sh 500,000 for finishing as runners-up while Mombasa B earned Sh250,000 for securing third place. Kwale, finishing in fourth position, received Sh 100,000.
Kilifi County’s impressive conduct both on and off the field earned them the title of Most Disciplined Team along with a Sh 100,000 cash prize.
Ibrahim Chama, a 14-year-old from Tana River was named Best Upcoming Talent of the tournament while Burhani Mahadhi, Kilifi’s manager, received the Best Manager Award for his strategic leadership.
Said Wagiri, goalkeeper for Mombasa A and SS Assad in the National Super League (NSL) was selected best goalkeeper for his outstanding saves throughout the entire tournament. Salmon Otieno from Mombasa B was the tournament’s top scorer, with nine goals.
Finally, Kilifi’s Bernard Feisal was voted the tournament’s Best Player for his help in the team’s triumphs. Each winner was awarded with 50,000 shillings cash.
In the first semi-final match on Friday, Kilifi faced off against Kwale B, Kilifi edging out Kwale B with a narrow 1-0 victory.
On Saturday, the second semi-final brought a thrilling encounter between local rivals Mombasa B and Mombasa A. The match was competitive, ending in a 1-1 draw after regular time. The outcome was decided through a penalty shootout, where Mombasa A emerged victorious with a score of 4-2.
Before the final on Sunday, the third-place match featured Mombasa B against Kwale B. The teams battled fiercely, ending in a 1-1 draw of regular time. The game proceeded to penalties, where Mombasa B won 3-1, securing third place in the tournament.
By Abdulrahman Shariff
