By KPC Sports Reporter
Kenyatta University emerged champions of the inaugural Eric Marcelo Ouma Foundation (EMOF) Supa Eight Tournament after edging hosts Strathmore University 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout on Monday evening at the Strathmore University Sports Complex.
The thrilling final had all the hallmarks of a classic encounter, with both sides creating numerous scoring opportunities in front of an electrified crowd. However, neither team could find the breakthrough in regulation time, forcing the contest to be settled from the penalty spot.
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The decisive moment came when John Mbaraka missed Strathmore University’s third penalty, allowing Joshua Wamanga to convert the winning spot-kick and spark wild celebrations among the Kenyatta University supporters.
Kenyatta University captain Austin Tandasi, who successfully converted his team’s first penalty, hailed the victory as a reward for the team’s hard work and commitment.
“I am so happy. It’s a great moment for our team and this victory is a product of our determination, discipline and teamwork. I would like to appreciate Eric Ouma for the wonderful initiative. This is a platform that we have lacked for a long time and it’s a good stage for players on campus,” said Tandasi.
Head coach Kelvin Ngare praised his players for their preparation and resilience throughout the tournament.
“We had prepared well for the tournament. We had a good time for like four months since we knew about this cup. Winning against tough opposition is really satisfying and I would like to thank Eric Ouma for this kind gesture. It means a lot for the players,” said Ngare.
Eight universities took part in the maiden competition, which kicked off on June 30. The participating institutions were Kenyatta University, Strathmore University, KCA University, Mount Kenya University, Kenya Methodist University, Africa International University, St. Paul’s University and Zetech University.
For their triumph, Kenyatta University walked away with KSh100,000, while runners-up Strathmore University received KSh50,000. Mount Kenya University secured third place and KSh25,000 after defeating Kenya Methodist University 3-1 in the playoff match.
The tournament is the brainchild of Harambee Stars defender Eric Ouma, who launched the competition to provide a platform for nurturing and showcasing football talent within Kenyan universities.
“We have had a thrilling three-day football extravaganza. We have witnessed great skills being displayed from the group stage to the final. What we have seen is actually in tandem with the objective of the tournament, which is to give opportunities to players on campus to show their talents and career progression,” said Ouma.
The successful debut of the EMOF Supa Eight Tournament highlighted the depth of talent within university football and reinforced its role as a pathway for aspiring players seeking to advance their careers in the sport.
