Bokoli Ward was gripped by football fever as the inaugural Tony Wakhungu Memorial Cup reached its penultimate stage, setting the stage for an enthralling final clash between Mahanga FC and Chebosi FC after electrifying semi-final encounters.
In a fiercely contested match, Mahanga FC defied the odds to secure their spot in the finals, edging out favorites Juakali FC in a thrilling 2-1 encounter.
Christopher Situma’s sensational strike in the 31st minute propelled Mahanga into the lead, but Juakali swiftly responded, leveling the score just a minute later.
However, a momentary lapse in Juakali’s defense in the dying minutes saw Mahanga capitalizing on a corner, securing a late 87th-minute goal and sealing their spot in the finals.
Awaiting Mahanga in the championship showdown is Chebosi FC, who exhibited sheer determination in their 1-0 win in the semis against Milani FC at the Chebosi High School Grounds in Webuye West Constituency.
Chebosi’s resilience saw them secure a decisive victory, setting the stage for an electrifying clash against Mahanga in the tournament’s pinnacle match.
While the finalists gear up for the ultimate battle, the tournament’s third-place playoff will witness Milani locking horns with Juakali in a bid to secure the tournament’s bronze medal.
Spearheaded by the generous sponsorship of Eng. Brian Anyanza, along with his friends and family, the Tony Wakhungu Memorial Cup carries a deeper significance, commemorating the life of Branton Wakhungu, who tragically lost his life during the Garissa terror attacks in 2015. Eng.
Anyanza expressed his heartfelt sentiments, stating, “We have organized this tournament in memory of my late brother Tony Wakhungu and aim to harness the sporting talent from this region.”
The tournament, which commenced on December 19th, 2023, boasts substantial prize money, with the ultimate victors walking away with a cash prize of KSH35,000 and sets of uniforms while the runners-up will receive Ksh25,000.
Teams finishing in third and fourth place will be awarded Ksh15,000 and 10,000, respectively, adding further stakes to an already intensely competitive tournament.
The community’s passionate football enthusiasts have flooded the tournament’s venues, eager to witness and support their local teams in what promises to be a historical finale, showcasing the essence of grassroots football and the spirit of sportsmanship.