Bandari Youth to Face Simba Apparel in Bingwa Fest Final

In their semi-final match on Friday, Bandari Youth secured a 1-0 victory over Denmak FC from Kwale County, while Simba Apparel triumphed over seasoned Division One side, Congo Boyz.

The only goal for Bandari Youth came in the eighth minute, courtesy of Seliman Kahema. He latched onto a precise pass from winger Tsuma Mohammed and lobbed the ball over Denmak FC goalkeeper, Mohammed Omar.

Despite Bandari Youth’s dominance, Omar, also known as "Donaruma," made several world-class saves to keep his team in the match. 

Denmak’s attack, led by experienced forwards Rashid Hassan, Mwinyi Chibato, and Bashir Omar, struggled with precision in the final third, thanks to strong defending from Mahmud Luwai, Imulia Orute, Lucas Mwaura, and Rodgers Baraka.

Earlier in the day at the same stadium, Simba Apparel secured a 1-0 win against Congo Boyz, booking their spot in Sunday’s finals. Charles Lumumba scored the match-winner in the 75th minute.

Congo Boyz were reduced to 10 men just before halftime when Jimmy Mweri was sent off for a second yellow card following a clash with Simba Apparel midfielder Brian Juma. This made it increasingly difficult for Congo Boyz to maintain their dominance in the game.

 While they controlled the midfield through Rashid Nzao "Chicha" and Mike Muliro "Stikah," their attack lacked the cutting edge needed to score.

Simba Apparel’s win sends them into the finals with momentum. They also hold an advantage over Bandari Youth, having won 2-0 in their FKF Div 2 first-leg encounter in December last year.

Simba Apparel head coach, Patrick Nyale, expressed confidence ahead of the final, saying:

"We beat them 2-0 in our league match at home, and since then, we’ve noticed they’ve changed a lot. They adapt their tactics as the match progresses, but we’re ready for them....nyasi ndio zitaumia....”

Bandari Youth head coach, Alex Shikanga, praised his team for their strong performance in the semis and declared they are ready to fight for the Bingwa Fest Coast title. 

“We won’t take it lightly. We’ll come out strong, so they better be prepared. I’m confident in our ability to win,” Shikanga said.

In the ladies’ category, Destiny FC will take on KCN Poly in an exciting final. Destiny Ladies defeated Ocead D Ladies 2-1 in their semi-final, while KCN Poly overwhelmed Madrid Ladies 3-0.

Both the third-place and final matches will be held on Sunday at Mbaraki Stadium.

According to Bingwa Fest football coordinator Bramwel Karamoja, the winners in each category will receive KSh 1 million, with second place earning KSh. 500,000 and third place taking home KSh. 250,000.

“Mombasa is a county rich in talent, and I’m confident the champions from the Coast will make a great showing in the National Finals,” Karamoja said.

“The Betika na Community initiative is working to bring out that talent, and we’re sure we’ll see some great finals on Sunday.”