Homa Bay Combined has been crowned the champions of the first edition of the Eliud Owalo Super Cup 2023 after overcoming Kisumu Combined 4-2 in post-match penalties after a barren draw in regular time in the finals staged at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, Kisumu.
The tournament kicked off on Tuesday, December 26, with the final match played on Thursday, December 28, attracting four county teams from Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, and Homa Bay.
The tournament sponsor, the Eliud Owalo Foundation, under the patronage of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary, Eliud Owalo, envisaged providing a platform to empower and unlock the untapped potential among the youth to nurture and develop their sporting talents.
Homa Bay walked away with a trophy and a cash prize of Sh400,000, while the runners-up, Kisumu Combined, took home Sh300,000.
At the same time, Siaya Combined finished in third place, beating Migori Combined 2-1 in the third-fourth playoff match at the same venue. Siaya received Sh200,000, while Migori got Sh100,000.
“With the attendance of numerous Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League coaches and scouts, the tournament presented a unique opportunity for skilled players to be scouted by prospective teams,” stated Owalo.
Twenty-two talented players were scouted from all four teams to form the consolidated Nyanza Combined team that will face the FKF Premier League giants Gor Mahia FC at Nyilima Grounds in Asembo, Siaya County, on Saturday, December 30.
Midfielder Joseph Akwenda from Homa Bay emerged as the Most Valuable Player of the tournament.
Homa Bay combined coach Mark Nyamache expressed his excitement for the victory and committed to ensuring that all the selected and talented players are supported to fulfil their dreams in sports.
By Robert Ojwang’
