Makadara MP aspirant Geoffrey “Pedeshee” Wauna was among those who joined residents and football fans during the finals of a local football tournament, where young players from different teams battled for top honours and a share of Sh500,000 in prize money.
The tournament brought together Maziwa FC, Maringo United Youth, Mbotela Kamaliza and Gava FC, giving young footballers an opportunity to display their talent while competing for recognition and financial rewards.
The finals provided an exciting conclusion to a competition that had attracted a strong following from the local community. Supporters gathered to watch the young players compete, with each team determined to finish in the best possible position.
The matches were characterised by strong challenges, attacking football and moments that kept fans engaged until the final whistle.
Maziwa FC emerged as one of the standout teams in the tournament after scoring four goals during the competition. Their attacking performance helped them establish themselves as a strong side and gave their supporters plenty to celebrate. The players showed determination and teamwork as they pushed for a place at the top of the standings.
Mbotela Kamaliza also delivered an impressive campaign, scoring three goals. The team remained organised and competitive throughout the tournament, with its players showing good finishing ability whenever opportunities came their way.Maringo United Youth and Gava FC each scored two goals.
Although their goal tallies were lower than those of Maziwa FC and Mbotela Kamaliza, both teams remained competitive and fought hard during their matches.
Their participation also underlined the depth of football talent available within the local community.
The main attraction, however, was the final, where the two leading sides produced a closely contested match. Neither team was able to settle the contest during normal playing time, forcing the game into a penalty shootout.
The penalty shootout brought plenty of tension to the ground. Players had to maintain their composure as they stepped forward to take their penalties, while the goalkeepers faced the pressure of making saves that could change the outcome of the final.
Supporters watched silently during some of the kicks before erupting into celebrations whenever a penalty found the back of the net. The shootout eventually produced a winner, with the victorious team securing the championship and the runners-up taking second place after a determined performance.
After the final, attention shifted to the awards ceremony, where the teams were rewarded according to their finishing positions. The winners walked away with Sh200,000, providing a significant reward for their efforts throughout the tournament.
The team that finished second received Sh150,000, while the third-placed side was awarded Sh100,000. The fourth-placed team also received Sh50,000.
In total, Sh500,000 was distributed among the four teams.
The prizes added significance to the competition, as the young players were not only competing for the honour of winning the tournament but also for financial rewards that could support their teams and further their football activities.
Geoffrey “Pedeshee” Wauna used the occasion to engage with the young players and supporters while highlighting the importance of investing in grassroots sports.
His presence at the finals added to the community focus of the tournament, which sought to give young people a platform to showcase their abilities.
The event also served as an opportunity to demonstrate how football can bring people together. Players from different neighbourhoods competed against one another, while supporters gathered to encourage their teams.
Parents, coaches and football lovers were able to witness the talent among young players who are developing their skills outside the established football structures.
For many of the participants, tournaments such as this one provide an important opportunity to gain competitive experience. Young footballers who may not have access to expensive academies or professional training facilities can use local competitions to improve their game, build confidence and attract attention from coaches and other football stakeholders.
The organisers also stressed the need to continue supporting what is commonly referred to as “mtaani talent”. Local neighbourhoods have produced many talented footballers, but without proper opportunities, some players struggle to progress beyond community competitions.
The tournament therefore provided more than just a football competition. It created a platform where young people could remain active, develop discipline and work together towards a common goal.
The prize money further encouraged the teams to take the competition seriously and compete at their highest level.The dramatic penalty shootout ensured that the final would remain one of the most memorable moments of the tournament. For the winning team, it was a reward for their determination, while the runners-up could take pride in reaching the final and putting up a strong fight.
By the time the awards were handed out, the four teams had all left their mark on the competition.
Maziwa FC’s four goals, Mbotela Kamaliza’s three, and the two goals each scored by Maringo United Youth and Gava FC reflected the competitive nature of the tournament.
The distribution of Sh200,000 to the winners, Sh150,000 to the runners-up, Sh100,000 to the third-placed team and Sh50,000 to the fourth-placed side brought the tournament to a successful close.
For Wauna and the organisers, the event also offered an opportunity to connect with young people through sport and encourage them to continue developing their talents. The tournament showed that with support, organisation and opportunities to compete, local footballers can continue building their skills and confidence.
