Isiolo Football Tournament Heads to Thrilling Final
Photo: William Lochan of Gravy Zebra scores to make 7:1 against Mwangaza united.
The Isiolo football tournament has reached its climax as Grevey Zebra FC and Bilbao FC storm into the finals after dominant semifinal victories at the Isiolo Cathedral Grounds.
Grevey Zebra FC sent a strong statement with a commanding 7-1 victory over Mwangaza United, while Bilbao FC edged past Ibntaimia 2-1 in a tense encounter. The two finalists will now battle for the championship during Eid Ul-Fitr, with a grand prize of KSH. 100,000 at stake. The runners-up will take home KSH. 50,000, while the third-place team will receive KSH. 30,000.
Adding excitement to the event, a curtain-raiser final featuring Isiolo Queens vs. City Border Queens will take place before the main match, shining a spotlight on women’s football.
Photo: Hussein Khadil FKF Isiolo chairperson
The tournament, which attracted 33 teams, is being organized by National Authority for the Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA) in partnership with Isiolo Women Representative Mumina Bonaya’s office.
FKF Isiolo County Chairperson Hussein Khadil Ali praised the initiative, highlighting its role in raising awareness about drug abuse among youth.
He noted that over 1,000 spectators have been attending the matches, demonstrating the tournament’s impact in engaging the community and creating sensitization on dangers of drug abuse.
However, Hussein also pointed out the financial challenges of running such events, citing a KSH. 2 million budget needed for organization. Poor playing conditions, inadequate referee payments, and player transportation difficulties have also hindered the smooth execution of the games.
Grevey Zebra’s Manager Confident of Victory
Francisco Ngolea, Grevey Zebra FC’s manager, expressed confidence in his team’s ability to clinch the title. He noted that his squad has remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, overcoming challenges like poor pitch conditions.
“We have trained hard, and the boys are motivated. Winning this title will be a testament to our hard work,” he said. However, he called for better inclusivity, urging organizers to provide uniforms and equipment for all participating teams.
Aspiring Isiolo coach Ahmed Abdiraham called on the government to devolve soccer training programs to county levels to help young players and managers refine their skills. He pointed out that drug abuse and lack of structured training remain major obstacles for young talents in the region.
“The success of this tournament shows that Isiolo has incredible potential. If we invest in our youth, we can transform lives through football,” he stated.
As the final showdown approaches, excitement is at an all-time high, with fans eagerly waiting to see who will lift the Isiolo football championship trophy a tournament sponsored by Mumina Bonaya in partnership with NACADA