Juve FC made a perfect start to their Sisi ni Dola Cup campaign after defeating Sango Sportiff FC 2-0 in an entertaining Group stage match played at the Mombasa Sports Club.
In-form striker Brian Karisa gave Juve an early advantage, finding the back of the net in the sixth minute before Enoch Lemayian doubled the lead in the 32nd minute. The two first-half goals proved enough to seal all three points as Juve comfortably held on for the win.
Karisa, 18, was named the Man of the Match following his impressive display. Speaking after the game, the young forward said the award had motivated him to work even harder as the team targets the tournament title.
“I’m happy to be named Man of the Match. Our aim is to win the trophy, and this recognition motivates me to keep improving,” said Karisa.
The youngster also revealed his long-term ambitions, expressing his desire to earn a move to a Kenya Premier League side such as Gor Mahia before pursuing his dream of playing for Chelsea FC in the English Premier League.
“This is my first time playing in this tournament, and I’m hoping for the best in the future,” he added.
Elsewhere at the same venue, Legacy FC edged Likoni United 1-0 courtesy of Abdullahi Siraj’s 15th-minute strike.
Juve FC head coach Peter Mayoyo said the tournament provides a valuable platform for young players to showcase their abilities before scouts.
“We have a talented squad this season, and I’m confident several of our players will attract the attention of the scouts who are here,” he said.
Dola Group Sports Director Hassan Kipapa said the competition is achieving its objective of identifying emerging talent while encouraging young people to embrace sports instead of drugs and substance abuse.
“We have deployed scouts to identify outstanding players during the tournament. Beyond football, our goal is to steer young people away from drugs and substance abuse by giving them opportunities to develop their talents through sport,” said Kipapa.
The Sisi ni Dola Cup champions will walk away with KSh 1 million, while the runners-up will receive KSh 500,000, with additional prizes set to be awarded in various individual and team categories.
