Mombasa, Kenya — Gor Mahia FC were crowned champions of the ODM @ 20 Football Extravaganza after edging out Bandari FC 1–0 in a thrilling final played at Mbaraki Stadium, Mombasa.
The decisive moment came in the 64th minute when substitute Ebenezer Adukwaw unleashed a spectacular 35-yard free kick that flew past Bandari goalkeeper Levis Opiyo, securing Gor Mahia their first silverware of the season.
The match began with Bandari pressing high and controlling possession. Just five minutes in, Abdallah Hassan’s curling corner forced Gor keeper Kevin Omondi into a quick save, earning Bandari another corner. Gor Mahia responded in the 20th minute with a dangerous effort from Joash Onyango that grazed the side post, signaling their intent.
The first half ended goalless after an intense midfield battle, but the tempo rose in the second period. Bandari missed a clear chance in the 52nd minute when defender Andrew Juma headed over from a William Wadri free kick. Twelve minutes later, Adukwaw’s stunning strike proved decisive.
Head coach Charles Akonnor hailed his players’ fighting spirit despite missing several key figures on national duty.
“This is our first trophy of the season and I’m happy. What excites me even more is that the player who scored wasn’t involved in our last two league matches. That shows we have depth in the squad,” Akonnor said.
Bandari FC trainer Yusuf Ndere expressed pride in his side’s performance, noting the tactical adjustments made after the semi-final.
“Our players gave everything. We made major changes after analyzing data from the semi-final, which showed some players were overworked. I believe the team still delivered,” Ndere said.
In the third-place playoff, Shabana FC edged AFC Leopards 1–0 thanks to an early strike from Erick Otieno in the 15th minute.
Prize Money and Awards
Gor Mahia – Trophy, medals, and sh.1 million
Bandari FC – Medals and sh.750,000
Shabana FC – sh.500,000
AFC Leopards – sh.250,000
The grand finale attracted top leaders including ODM Deputy Party Leader and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, and ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.
Governor Nassir praised the tournament for showcasing youth talent and community unity.
“As ODM Deputy Party Leader, I had the pleasure of hosting the culmination of our ODM Football Extravaganza, a thrilling display of passion, unity, and sportsmanship,” said Governor Nassir.
“Congratulations to both teams for giving us a game worthy of the occasion; and to all fans who filled the stands with unmatched Mombasa energy. This was more than football; it was a celebration of community, youth talent, and the ODM spirit of togetherness,” he added.