Intercity FC from Tebere Ward has been crowned as the winner of the Governor Anne Waiguru’s Kshs. 1 million Grand Prize Football Tournament.
Intercity FC won the two-month long tournament in a nail-biting 3-2 penalty shoot-out at Wang’uru Stadium in Mwea constituency against Thumaita FC from Kiine ward.
The team was awarded the Ksh.1 million grand prize by Governor Waiguru before a crowd of about 20,000 spectators.
The defining moment came when the game ended in a barren draw prompting the referee to call for a penalty shout-out.
Dennis Murimi, the indomitable captain Intercity FC, basked in the glory of their hard-fought triumph. Overflowing with ecstasy and elation, Murimi said that their relentless dedication and hard work had finally reaped the sweet fruits of success.
In a testament to their gallant efforts, Thumaita FC walked home with more than just memories, securing a commendable second place and a handsome second prize of Kshs. 750,000.
Shifting the spotlight to the women’s matches, a riveting clash unfolded as Mukou Queens FC from Thiba Ward scored 3-1 to seized victory over Nyangati Ladies FC.
In a dazzling display of prowess, Mukou Queens FC were crowned the champions, clinching the Kshs. 500,000 women’s grand prize.
Governor Waiguru said she was elated to witness display of excellent talents during the tournament.
The governor congratulated all the 200 teams that participated and announced that she would make the tournament an annual event.
Green Stars from Karumandi ward emerged third, scooping Ksh.500,000 while Al Muslim FC from Kariti ward bagged Ksh.350,000.
Top teams in the ward level walked away with Ksh.50,000 for the winner, Ksh. 30,000 for the second, Ksh. 20,000 for the third, Ksh. 10,000.
Waiguru expressed her satisfaction with the resounding success of the tournament themed as “Nurturing Talent for Livelihood.”
She revealed that approximately 5,000 young footballers actively engaged in the competition, not only showcasing their skills on the field but also leveraging on their talents to generate substantial income.
The governor said a total of Ksh 7.850 million in cash prizes were awarded to winners of various levels of the tournament.
The Council of Governors (COG) chair said the tournament has become a catalyst for economic vibrancy at the grassroots level with hundreds of spectators flocking playgrounds to witness matches across all the wards which in turn provided business opportunities for local vendors.
“The football matches that were played every Sunday simultaneously across the wards also created business opportunities for innovative entrepreneurs who sold foodstuff and other merchandise to thousands of fans who turned up to cheer their teams,” she said.
Beyond the financial aspect, the governor said the event played a crucial role in steering young individuals away from the perils of drug abuse.
“In today’s world, football is big business and there is money in the game. Those who demonstrated football prowess during this tournament have a great chance of becoming professional footballers and climbing up the ladder to international leagues,” she remarked.
