Talanta Hela U19 football teams are through to the finals of the Costa Daurada Cup that is ongoing in Salou, Spain.
The tournament has attracted celebrated teams like PSG, Bayern Munich, Girona, Malaga, Olympic Madrid, and Sporting de Portugal. Kenya made history as the first African country to compete in the tournament.
The finals will be played on Thursday, 28 March.
Boys Run
The boys were in a class of their own, defeating Berango FT 2-0 in the closely contested match played under the freezing temperatures in Futbol Salou Stadium.
They scored through Austine Odongo and Bandari FC’s left winger William Gitamu.
Speaking after the match, the team’s coach Stanley Okumbi admitted that their loss to Nastic Soccer Academy on Tuesday evening had him questioning their preparedness ahead of the game. Despite that, he noted that the win filled him with pride.
The tactician further pointed out that his charges were gelling well and improving each day, expressing confidence that the future was bright for the boys.
“The game was okay. Prior to the game, I was worried because of the result. They picked up well especially in the second half. Our secret was in the attacking speed and defending,” he started.
With the win now behind them, Okumbi was optimistic that they would shine in the final.
“Our opponents were very tough, but we were well organized and we defeated them. The boys are improving everyday. I expect a tough final. The boys are already motivated and encouraged to go for it,”he concluded.
They will renew their rivalry with Usurbil FT in the final. This will be a repeat of their final pool match where they saw off their opponents 2-0. They will be keen to register a win.
Girls Run
The girls showed Antiguoko Ke who is queen after defeating them 1-0 in the equally competitive semifinal match. They scored through Elizabeth Mideva.
On her side, the team’s coach Jackline Juma praised her charges’ effort, noting that their resilience paid off.
“We played against a good side, but we composed ourselves, hence the good result. I am proud of the ladies. We are hoping to win the final title and make the country proud,” Juma said.
The ladies will play the final match against Sporting de Portugal. This will be a repeat of their second pool match when they saw off the Portuguese side 3-2. They will be looking to triumph again.
All the final matches will kick off at 1:30pm (EAT).
