The Abbas Khalif Super Cup is entering its most intense stage after a month of action-packed grassroots football featuring 40 teams drawn from all five wards in Lang’ata.
The tournament, which kicked off in November with eight teams representing each ward, is now only days away from its grand finale set for December 20 at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
Quarterfinal action began on December 9, with Akiba edging out Jua Kali Madaraka 1–0 in a tightly contested match.
Captain Anas Mahad scored the decisive goal in the second half, securing Akiba’s place in the semifinals and sparking jubilant celebrations among their supporters.
In the other quarterfinal of the day, South C Rangers proved too strong for Steplink, claiming a 3–1 victory.
Rangers captain Stephen Oduor converted two penalties in the opening half after Steplink committed back-to-back handball offences.
Shortly after the restart, Samuel Kigo added a third, finishing off a swift attacking move that sealed Rangers’ progression into the last four.
The remaining quarterfinals will be played on December 11, with Basel facing Kuwinda and State City taking on Kuwinda United.
The winners will complete the semifinal lineup ahead of the December 16 clashes, which are expected to attract large crowds given the escalating stakes.
The Super Cup has gained widespread attention across Lang’ata, not just for the football on display but also for the unprecedented prizes on offer.
The champions will take home a 33-seater matatu, the runners-up will earn an 11-seater matatu, while the third-place team will receive a sedan.
Additionally, all 40 teams were awarded Sh50,000 and a full playing kit for 25 players at the start of the competition.
Beyond bragging rights, the prizes offer long-term economic value, with many teams planning to register the matatus with saccos to generate income and sustain their operations turning the tournament into a meaningful community empowerment initiative.
South C Rangers coach Issa Mohamed believes his team is on the brink of something special.
“The 33-seater would change everything for us. Transport for away matches is always a challenge,” he said. “Akiba is our derby rival, so the semifinal won’t be easy, but we’re ready.”
Akiba captain Anas Mahad echoed the confidence.
“We respect South C Rangers, but we believe in ourselves,” he said, setting the stage for a thrilling semifinal showdown.
