Sabaki Ward MCA Rose Baraka presents the trophy to Sandoki FC players, who emerged winners of the Rose Baraka Tournament. Photo/Alex Kalama
By Alex Kalama
Sandoki FC emerged victorious in the highly anticipated Rose Baraka MCA Sabaki Ward Tournament, defeating Blessed FC 1–0 in a tense final played at Sandoki Grounds in Kwandomo, Sabaki, Kilifi County, on Sunday, January 4, 2025.
The decisive goal came in the 53rd minute of the second half when Sandoki captain Emmanuel Abila broke through Blessed FC’s defence and calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper.
The strike proved enough to secure Sandoki FC the championship title in front of an electrified crowd of nearly 5,000 fans drawn from across Kilifi County.
Blessed FC started strongly, dominating much of the first half and forcing Sandoki to defend deep. Despite sustained pressure, the two sides went into the halftime break locked at 0–0.
Jubilant Sandoki FC players celebrating the trophy they won. Photo/Alex Kalama
After the restart, Sandoki FC reorganised, tightened their midfield, and gradually took control of the game. Their relentless attacks produced three goals, although two were ruled offside by the referee, leaving Abila’s effort as the match-winner.
Cash prizes and youth empowerment
As champions, Sandoki FC walked away with KES 60,000 in cash, a trophy, team jerseys, and footballs. Runners-up Blessed FC received KES 40,000, jerseys, and a ball, while Serengeti FC, who finished third, earned KES 20,000 in cash.
Sandoki midfielder Soja Kaingu was named Player of the Tournament in recognition of his outstanding performances throughout the competition.
The Rose Baraka Tournament, organised during the November–December holiday season and culminating in January 2026, brought together teams from across Sabaki Ward. The final not only showcased local football talent but also highlighted the growing passion for grassroots sports in Kilifi County.
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With Sandoki FC crowned champions, the tournament ended on a high note, leaving fans eager for the next edition of the community-driven football spectacle.
Speaking after the final, Sabaki Ward MCA Rose Baraka congratulated all the young players who took part in the tournament. She urged more youth from the ward to embrace sports, noting that this was only the beginning and promising even greater opportunities in the year ahead.
Baraka emphasised that the tournament is designed to keep young people engaged in positive activities, steering them away from harmful behaviours such as drug abuse and criminal gangs. She also highlighted its role in protecting girls from early pregnancies, particularly during the long holiday season when many children are at home.
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