South C Rangers punched their ticket to the Sakaja Super Cup final with a thrilling 2-1 win over New Mathare in a closely fought Nairobi West regional semi-final at Dandora Stadium.
The match kicked off with both teams showcasing solid defensive play, keeping the first half locked at 0-0. But the intensity ramped up in the second half. In the 53rd minute, Eric Oyako fired South C Rangers ahead, finishing off a well-coordinated attacking move that had the crowd roaring.
New Mathare struck back with a brilliant equalizer in the 68th minute, as Jeremiah Ochieng’s clinical finish reignited their hopes. However, it was Brian Omondi’s moment of brilliance in the 76th minute that sealed the game for South C Rangers. With ice-cold composure, Omondi slotted home the winner, sending his team into celebrations and their fans into jubilation.
Post-Match Reactions
New Mathare’s head coach, Robert Menya, admitted his side’s defensive struggles. “Our lapses at the back cost us today. We’ll regroup, focus on our league games, and come back stronger,” Menya stated.
On the other hand, South C Rangers’ head coach, Godfrey Nganyi, praised his team’s resilience and preparation. “This victory is a testament to the hard work we’ve put in over the last two months. We’re grateful to our fans and Governor Sakaja for their support. Now, our eyes are on the prize — we’re ready to bring the trophy home,” Nganyi declared.
The Road to the Final
This year’s Sakaja Super Cup has been a spectacle, featuring 780 teams from across Nairobi in a showcase of grassroots football at its finest. The tournament has introduced night matches under floodlights, enhancing both the players’ experience and the excitement for fans.
As the grand finale approaches, defending champions Githurai All Stars remain in the hunt, eyeing back-to-back titles. The final showdown, set for Friday afternoon at Dandora Stadium, promises to be a nail-biter, with a Ksh 3 million cash prize awaiting the champions.
With South C Rangers already through, Nairobi football fans are eagerly anticipating the remaining regional deciders. The Sakaja Super Cup has not only provided a platform for young talent but also reinvigorated the city’s love for grassroots football.
The stage is set. Will South C Rangers claim glory, or will the defending champions reign supreme? Friday’s final promises fireworks.
