By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 30 December 2025 - Sondu United FC etched their name into local football history after winning the inaugural Jonathan Opande Raila Odinga Memorial Super Cup in dramatic fashion, edging out rivals Nyagweno FC 9–8 on penalties after a tense draw in regulation time at Urudi Primary School Sports Ground in Nyakach, Kisumu County.
The much-anticipated final lived up to its billing as both sides displayed discipline, grit, and tactical awareness, cancelling each other out in a tightly contested encounter.
Neither the first half nor the second half produced a goal, despite several promising attacking moves from both teams.
Goalkeepers from either side were alert, marshaling their defenses effectively and ensuring the deadlock remained intact until the final whistle.
The match was eventually decided in a nerve-racking penalty shootout that kept fans on their feet.
Sondu United FC goalkeeper Clinton Yusuf emerged as the standout performer, saving two crucial penalties, while two additional spot kicks from Nyagweno FC were fired wide under pressure.
The defining moment arrived when Felix Maselo stepped up to take the final kick and calmly slotted the ball past Nyagweno goalkeeper Ceril Blessing sparking wild celebrations as Sondu United FC clinched a 9–8 victory to lift the glittering trophy.
For Nyagweno FC, it was a heartbreaking end to an otherwise impressive campaign.
Clifford Ochieng was among the players whose penalty sailed wide, while Eliud Odhiambo also failed to convert during the shootout after the two teams remained inseparable in normal time.
Beyond the football, the final was steeped in emotion and symbolism.
Earlier, a minute of silence was observed at the pitch as players, officials, and supporters stood akimbo to honour the late Raila Odinga, who passed away two months ago.
The solemn moment set the tone for a tournament dedicated to remembrance, unity, and community empowerment.
Tournament patron Jonathan Opande revealed that the late Raila Odinga before his demise had been formally invited to attend the event in June, with the calendar already booked for the occasion.
Paying tribute, Opande said Raila’s sudden death cut his journey short, but emphasised that his ideals, leadership, and contribution to society continue to resonate strongly within the community.
In a powerful symbolic gesture, Opande placed a VVIP chair and a trademark hat synonymous with Raila Odinga at the VIP pavilion.
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The chair remained deliberately unoccupied throughout the match, standing as a silent reminder of a leader whose presence was deeply missed.
The VIP pavilion hosted a host of dignitaries, including Nyakach MP Joshua Aduma Owuor and Jonathan Opande, seated alongside MCAs Lumumba Owade, James Omollo, and Tom Nyaoke.
They were joined by ODM leaders and supporters led by Nyakach ODM Branch Chairman Charles Odhiambo, all witnessing a day that blended sport, politics, and culture.
The event was crowned with pomp and colour as fans were treated to electrifying entertainment from popular Ohangla maestro Prince Indah and his band.
The music ignited the crowd, with hundreds of fans pouring onto the pitch to dance and take energetic jigs for over an hour.
MP Owuor and the MCAs led the celebrations from the VIP pavilion, followed closely by supporters, the jubilant Sondu United players, and even the runners-up Nyagweno FC, underscoring the tournament’s spirit of unity and sportsmanship.
The memorial cup was also marked by substantial rewards aimed at motivating grassroots football.
Sondu United FC, as overall winners, walked away with KSh 100,000, a pair of boots for every player, and a full set of team uniforms.
Nyagweno FC, finishing second, received KSh 75,000, alongside boots for all players and a complete uniform set.
The team finishing third earned KSh 50,000, while teams placed fourth to eighth each received KSh 10,000.
The competition had earlier been conducted at the ward level, involving five wards, with eight teams per ward.
In a move that emphasised inclusivity, all participating teams were provided with full sets of uniforms.
At the ward stage, winners pocketed KSh 50,000, second-placed teams earned KSh 30,000, third place took KSh 20,000, while fourth-placed teams received KSh 10,000.
The inaugural Jonathan Opande Raila Odinga Memorial Super Cup concluded as more than just a football tournament.
It stood as a celebration of talent, remembrance of a fallen icon, and a platform for nurturing youth through sport, leaving behind a legacy that organizers and fans hope will grow even bigger in the years to come.
