By Eddah Waithaka
The Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars capped a transformative week in Spain with a commanding 4-2 victory over SD Huesca’s U20 team in a thrilling friendly match on Sunday.
The Kenyan boys’ team delivered an outstanding performance at the SD Huesca Academy Grounds, overpowering their hosts with goals from Denzel Omollo, Armstrong Omondi, Brian Aroka, and Baraka Rodgers.
Although an own goal from Joseph Maosa and a strike from Felipe Montero brought SD Huesca back into the game, the All-Stars sealed a memorable win to conclude their Spanish tour.
The match followed a morning training session for the girls’ team, led by SD Huesca Academy coach Juan Ramón Fung.“I want to sincerely thank Safaricom for this opportunity,” said goalscorer Baraka Rodgers.
“It has been an incredible experience here in Spain. I believe experiences like these are crucial for young players like us, as they broaden our mindset and change how we approach the game.”
The squad of 24 players, 12 boys and 12 girls selected from the Season Four national finals, touched down in Huesca on September 6th for the week-long elite football camp.
They immersed themselves in masterclasses and intensive training sessions at the world-class Base Aragonesa de Fútbol facilities.
Beyond the pitch, the players soaked in the local culture with city tours and witnessed high-intensity professional football, attending a Segunda División clash between SD Huesca and Málaga CF.
Safaricom’s Chief Consumer Business Officer, Fawzia Ali, stated, “We have had a great week here in Spain, giving our youngsters invaluable exposure to professional football training. They have gained tremendous skills from the academy’s top coaches.”
This landmark tour culminates the fourth season of the Safaricom Chapa Dimba initiative, which aims to nurture football talent across Kenya.
The program has already proven to be a vital pipeline for the national teams, with over ten players from this season alone securing spots in top clubs.
Notable call-ups include Derrick Oketch and Austine Odongo (Shabana FC), Brighton Anyona (Gor Mahia), Brian Aroka (Tusker Youth), Stanley Waswa (Ulinzi FC), Emily Morang’a (Kenya Police), Swaumu Masungo (Vihiga Queens), and William Odek (Zetech University).
