The highly anticipated first edition of the Dola Super Cup officially kicked off at the Mombasa Sports Club on Sunday.
The opening match was between Mvita 1 and Likoni 1, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The explosive opener saw Likoni 1 break the deadlock in the 58th minute when Hussein Nassoro scored directly from a corner kick, putting the visitors ahead.
However, the lead was short-lived, as six minutes later, Abdulmajid Ahmed of Mvita 1 found himself alone in the 18-yard area and seized the opportunity to equalise with a well-placed shot, levelling the score.
The match was graced by a section of Mombasa leadership, including Senator Mohamed Faki and Likoni MP Mishi Mboko.
Mboko expressed confidence in the teams from Likoni, stating, “I believe that teams from Likoni will win this tournament for the talent that we have. I physically came here to support my boys and to show my commitment to supporting the talented individuals from my area,” she said.
The Dola Super Cup, which aims to foster unity and sportsmanship among the youth in the coastal region, kicked off with much fanfare, including a halftime performance by Coast-based musician Yusuf Kombo, also known as ‘Susumila’.
Saddam Suleiman, the Head of Marketing for Dola Group, expressed satisfaction with the tournament’s start, noting: “This tournament is aiming to provide a platform for showcasing talent, gaining exposure, and attracting the attention of scouts, with the broader objective being empowering the youth,” said Suleiman.
He also noted that no fees were charged, as Dola Group provided free jerseys and other equipment, ensuring that the tournament was accessible and inclusive, benefiting not just Mombasa County but the entire coastal region.
Dola Groups’ prospects are that at the end of the 3-month tournament, there will be a sense of togetherness among the youth, which will also help deviate them from societal vices.
Meanwhile, the weekend action continued with Changamwe 1 hosting Kisauni 1 at Chaani Stadium. The visitors dominated the match and thrashed the hosts 3-0 to secure maximum points.
By Abdulrahman Shariff
