Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala during the Cleo Malala Tournament in Kakamega yesterday|PHOTO COURTESY/
Eshikufu FC from Mumias East are the champions of the 6th edition of the most commemorated Cleo Malala super cup 2024. The Mumias East giants formerly known as Nyota FC under the tutelage of Ibrahim Shikanda brought the western soccer community to a lively football show, showcasing their football prowess.
Eshikufu smashed Tigers FC of Bungoma 2-0 in an enthusiastic final played under floodlights at Lions Grounds in Kakamega bagging KES 3M in cash prize.
Tigers FC, however, walked home with KES 1.5 Million for finishing as runners-up in this year’s edition.
A 5-day football extravaganza involving 48 teams from the 5 counties of the western region brought Kakamega town to life with actions day and night under the marvellous floodlights at Lions Grounds. The defending champions Arsenal Lirehmbe were shown dust in the quarter finals by Samitsi FC of Malava before Tigers FC eliminated them in a 4-3 penalty shootout after 0-0 thriller in semi-final 1 .
On the other hand Eshikufu FC edged out Maroon commandos of Khwisero 2-0 in an entertaining semi-final 2, qualifying for the finals.
Tigers FC lethal midfielder Instint Simiyu was crowned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament walking away with KES 50,000 in cash prize as Eshikufu FC goalkeeper P. Omwaya won the golden gloves as the best goalkeeper of the tournament also receiving KES 50,000.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attended the finals as the chief guest of the tournament bringing Kakamega town to a standstill after landing in a chopper.
Despite denial of the initial Mumias Sports complex venue by the county government, the 6th edition of Cleo Malala super cup will go down in history as one of the most successful football tournaments in the Western region.
From energetic music performances and lit football actions to the fully packed Lions grounds by the enthusiastic football lovers from Western Kenya, the Cleophas Malala Super cup tournament was a joy to watch.
Leave a comment