South Akiba FC players in action with Jua Kali Madaraka during the quarterfinals of the inaugural Abbas Khalif Super Cup at Kenya Prisons grounds along Lang'ata Road/HANDOUT The Abbas Khalif Super Cup has entered its decisive phase after weeks of spirited competition involving 40 teams drawn from the five wards of Lang’ata.
The tournament, which kicked off in November with eight teams per ward playing a round-robin format, has energised grass-roots football and is set to conclude with a grand final on December 20 at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
Quarterfinal action began on December 9, with Akiba edging Jua Kali Madaraka 1–0 in a tense encounter. Captain Anas Mahad scored the lone goal in the second half, finishing calmly to send his team into the semifinals. The hard-fought victory capped a strong campaign for Akiba, who have emerged as one of the tournament’s dark horses.
In the day’s second quarterfinal, South C Rangers cruised past Steplink with a 3–1 win. Rangers captain Stephen Oduor scored two first-half penalties, both awarded after Steplink defenders handled the ball inside the box.
The errors left Steplink deflated, and Rangers capitalised further when Samuel Kigo struck early in the second half after a neat exchange of passes. Steplink managed a consolation goal but were unable to threaten Rangers’ dominance.
The remaining quarterfinal fixtures are scheduled for 11th December, pitting Basel against Kuwinda and State City against Kuwinda United. The winners will join Akiba and South C Rangers in the semifinals slated for 16th December, setting up what promises to be a thrilling battle for a place in the final.
The Super Cup has attracted significant attention due to its unprecedented prize package. This year’s champions will drive away with a 33-seater matatu, while the runners-up will earn an 11-seater matatu. The third-place team will take home a sedan.
Additionally, each participating team has already received Sh50,000 and a full kit comprising jerseys, shorts and socks for 25 players. The rewards, among the most generous in community football, have positioned the tournament as a major boost for youth and grassroots teams.
For many clubs, the prospect of winning a matatu is transformative. Teams intend to register the vehicles in transport Saccos to generate revenue, easing the financial constraints that often hinder community football outfits. The tournament’s impact has been widely praised by coaches, players and local fans.
South C Rangers head coach Issa Mohamed said his squad is determined to win the top prize. “The 33-seater will really help us. We often struggle with transport for away fixtures, so this would be a big boost,” he said. “Our semifinal against Akiba is a derby, and those matches are never easy, but we are prepared.”
Akiba captain Anas Mahad acknowledged Rangers as the strongest opposition, but remains confident. “They’re a good side, but we believe in our team,” he said.
