Chuka University Scorpions from Tharaka Nithi and Syomunyu Secondary School of Kitui County clinched the coveted Safaricom Chapa Dimba trophy at the Eastern Region finals held at Kinoru Stadium.
The victors secured a significant cash prize of Ksh. 250,000 each and earned the opportunity to represent the Eastern region in the upcoming National finals scheduled for early next year.
In an intense face-off, the Scorpions triumphed over the Predators from Embu County with a 4-2 victory in penalty shootouts, ultimately claiming the Eastern Region title.
Joseph John’s impressive 9th-minute strike set the tone for the Scorpions, but Josphat Kimanzi equalized in the 52nd minute, leading to the decisive penalty shootout.
Sean Opwora, head coach of Chuka University Scorpions, expressed elation at their unexpected success, stating, “Winning it is something we take great pride in. The game was challenging; we did not anticipate going to penalties, but once again, we performed well in the penalty shootout.”
In a parallel final, Syomunyu Secondary School secured a 1-0 victory against Chuka University Starlets, with Carol Wakesho scoring the decisive goal in the 36th minute.
Despite Chuka Starlets’ efforts to equalize, hitting the crossbar twice, they were unable to overturn the deficit.
Both winning teams, Scorpions and Syomunyu Secondary, pocketed Ksh 250,000 each, while the runners-up, Predators, and Chuka University Starlets, received Ksh. 150,000 each.
The tournament recognized outstanding individual contributions with the Most Valuable Player (MVP), Best Goalkeeper, and Top Scorer (boys and girls) each receiving Ksh. 30,000.
In addition to the cash prizes, players from the winning teams were awarded Neon Ultra phones, while the runners-up received Neon Smarter Phones.
The victors join other qualifying teams from Western and Rift Valley for the national finals next year.
Safaricom Chapa Dimba, designed to nurture young football talent and provide a platform for scouts and coaches, aims to build feeder systems for Kenyan football leagues while training 250 coaches.
As the Eastern Region concludes, the tournament is set to unfold in the Coast Region early next year, further fueling the passion for football development across the nation.
By John Majau
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