Arsenal Lirhembe Sunday edged out Kona Legends 2-1 in a thrilling Cleo Malala Super Cup final at Mumias Sports Complex, securing the Sh3 million prize and the coveted championship title. A stunning brace by Mark Shaban was the difference, as the Ikolomani-based team celebrated a well-earned victory in front of their raucous supporters.
The match, which was held before a packed crowd, saw both teams put on an exciting display of skill and determination, but it was Arsenal Lirhembe who emerged victorious, thanks to Shaban’s clinical finishing. The win not only earned them a significant financial reward but also the bragging rights in what has become one of the region's most prestigious football tournaments.
From the first whistle, the intensity of the match was evident. Kona Legends, known for their organized defense and attacking prowess, made an early impression, pressing forward with intent. However, Arsenal Lirhembe responded in kind, showing their attacking flair and commitment to winning. The first half was a tense affair, with both sides creating opportunities but failing to break the deadlock.
The breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Mark Shaban capitalized on a perfectly placed cross from the left wing. Shaban made no mistake, leaping to meet the ball with a powerful header that flew past Kona Legends’ goalkeeper to give Arsenal Lirhembe the lead. The stadium erupted with joy as the Ikolomani fans celebrated the opening goal.
Kona Legends were not about to go down without a fight, and they responded with a series of well-coordinated attacks. They leveled the score in the 72nd minute after a quick counterattack caught Arsenal Lirhembe’s defense off-guard. The Legends’ forward, showing great composure under pressure, slotted the ball into the net to make it 1-1, sending their supporters into a frenzy.
However, the match took another dramatic turn just minutes later when Mark Shaban scored his second goal of the day. In the 78th minute, Shaban received a ball just outside the box, evaded a challenge from a defender, and unleashed a powerful shot that found the back of the net, putting Arsenal Lirhembe back in the lead.
The Kona Legends pushed hard for an equalizer in the closing stages of the game, but Arsenal Lirhembe’s defense held firm, and goalkeeper Joseph Luwasi made a series of crucial saves to ensure his team’s victory. As the final whistle blew, the Ikolomani-based team and their supporters erupted in celebration.
The 2-1 victory not only secured Arsenal Lirhembe the Sh3 million cash prize but also cemented their place in the history of the Cleo Malala Super Cup. Shaban’s two goals were enough to earn him the man of the match award, with his performance described as nothing short of heroic.
Speaking after the match, a delighted Arsenal Lirhembe coach expressed his pride in the team’s performance, praising the players for their resilience and commitment throughout the tournament. “We knew it was going to be a tough match, but the players showed incredible spirit, and I’m so proud of them. This victory is a testament to their hard work and determination,” he said.