Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW3

On By Deryl AdudaIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Chelsea vs. Luton

H2H: W2 D0 L0

Fab: Chelsea are due that first win, aren’t they? Luton should come into this match the fresher side after having sat out the last round of fixtures. Can they make it count at the Blues? Probably not.

Prediction: 3-1

Bobo: An interesting fixture for both teams. They should both be feeling that they can get something from this game. Chelsea should have done better against the Hammers and Luton had a harder fixture against Brighton. It has not been an easy start to life in the premier league for The Hatters. Chelsea have the quality to win this and I think they just might.

Prediction: 2-1

Bournemouth vs. Tottenham Hotspur

H2H: W2 D2 L8

Fab: The Cherries failed to take advantage of Liverpool being a man less at Anfield last weekend but will be encouraged by the fact that they created a good number of chances. If they can replicate that then they have a good chance of getting a result. Spurs were brilliant against Man United and confidence is high in the camp. Of concern for Ange Postecoglu will be the fitness of James Maddison considering how much of their creativity he’s responsible for. I expect goals and probably for Bournemouth to just edge it.

Prediction: 3-2

Bobo: Tottenham were quality against Manchester United last week. They have their flaws but they are already looking like a well-drilled unit. The Cherries started well against Liverpool and should have done better against the ten men. They just did not have the quality to close out that game or score some more. The Cherries can score but can they really defend when needed to? I think not.

Prediction: 1-3

Arsenal vs. Fulham

H2H: W23 D6 L3

Fab: You could say it was luck or grit that Arsenal managed to get away with the win from Selhurst Park on Monday night after having to play virtually the entire second half a man less. Fulham come to this clash on the back of spanking at home in a London derby against Brentford and the signs seem ominous. The Cottagers have actually never beaten Arsenal on the road and there’s nothing to suggest they’re about to break that streak.

Prediction: 4-1

Bobo: Arsenal have made a good albeit shaky start with their two less-than-comfortable wins. Fulham do not seem too good at the moment and I think the Gunners should be able to continue with their winning start and be a bit more comfortable this time.

Prediction: 3-0

Brentford vs. Crystal Palace

H2H: W0 D4 L0

Fab: Brentford are flying high, scoring goals and generally coping well without talisman Ivan Toney. Palace were unlucky to not get a point against Arsenal and should be encouraged by their second half display. Still, their main problem could be a chronic lack of a goalscorer. It’s just for this reason alone that I fancy the home side to pick up all the points.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: An interesting fixture that has not seen any of the teams win in their meetings. I think this is an exciting match and also think that the 100% draw record will continue.

Prediction: 2-2

Everton vs. Wolves

H2H: W6 D6 L6

Fab: Two teams who are probably desperate to face each other clash at Goodison Park. It has been a wretched start of the season for Everton who have lost both games and are still scoreless. Wolves fought bravely at Old Trafford but were brought back down to earth by a ruthless Brighton last weekend. It’s going to be very attritional and even though a draw seems likely, I’ll go with the Toffees just about snatching victory.

Prediction: 1-0

Bobo: Can two teams play a football match and both lose? I think if that was possible then it is exactly what would happen here. Two teams that struggle to score and defend. An early relegation six-pointer. Wolves show more goal-scoring promise and they may just get their first win here.

Prediction: 0-2

Manchester United vs. Nottingham Forest

H2H: W11 D2 L1

Fab: It’s been a terrible week for United with the humbling at Spurs and the backlash from the Mason Greenwood saga so it’s safe to say that a win here would be most precious and timely. Forest got their first win of the season at home to Sheffield and should be buzzing for this trip at a time when their opponents seem really vulnerable. The problem with that though? They almost never win at Old Trafford. United may have their problems, but should be roared to the victory by the crowd.

Prediction: 2-1

Bobo: The Red Devils were so dismal in their last match (and the previous one also, to be honest) while Forest have shown signs of brilliance in their last two matches. The outcome of this match really depends on which United turns up. Forest are looking much better this season and have the source of goals. They will take their chances when handed to them and this is why I think it may be a massive point here for Forest.

Prediction: 1-1

Brighton vs. West Ham United

H2H: W6 D6 L3

Fab: Can high flying league leaders Brighton be stopped? Of course yes, there are teams well capable of doing that. Are the Hammers among them? Probably not. West Ham did well to defeat Chelsea but this is a sterner test. And that’s testament to just how good the Seagulls have become – so good that there’s already talk of them being in the title race. They should be too good for the visitors.

Prediction: 3-1

Bobo: The Seagulls are an exciting unit and they look good every time. They have goals coming from a different array of sources. This means they are almost guaranteed goals. The Hammers took their chances well against Chelsea last weekend but they had luck on their side. Against a team like Brighton, luck may not suffice. I think Brighton will continue with their great start to the season.

Prediction: 3-0

Burnley vs. Aston Villa

H2H: W2 D6 L3

Fab: Burnley return to league action after sitting out last weekend and it will be interesting to see whether the extra rest have energized them. For Aston Villa (and indeed Unai Emery’s sides) you just never know which team will turn up especially on away assignments. They were abysmal at Newcastle and scintillating at home against Everton, so who knows what’s next? There should be goals in the battle of the clarets, and probably honours shared.

Prediction: 2-2

Bobo: Burnley had the extra week of rest which allows their coach time to reflect on the first loss and improve the team. Villa also showed that they had learned their lessons from that first loss and that they have the quality to win and win big. They come up against a more formidable opponent in Burnley but I think Villa have all the quality it takes to win the game.

Prediction: 1-3

Sheffield United vs. Manchester City

H2H: W1 D3 L8

Fab: Can’t see Sheffield winning this one and so should be another win for the Citizens as their title charge gathers pace. Erling Haaland also failed to find the net in their last game and that’s, well, pretty odd. Expect him to resume normal service.

Prediction: 1-3

Bobo: Sheffield will need to start picking up wins but this does not seem like its the game they will do it. City have a perfect start to the season and I expect that this will continue. The win against the Toon made it clear that they are still the team to beat.

Prediction: 1-4

Newcastle vs. Liverpool

H2H: W11 D12 L33

Fab: The pick of the fixtures rightfully comes last and this could be an entertaining one. Both sides play high octane, expansive attacking football and so goals should be aplenty. The Toon lost to the champions but that will not worry them much. Liverpool did manage to get the win at home to Bournemouth but it was anything but straight forward. There’s a certain fragility in their defensive side of the game that many teams in the league will be looking to exploit, Newcastle included. Add to the uncertainty of Saudi interest in Mohamed Salah and the home side must be licking their lips.

Prediction: 3-2

Bobo: The final game of the match day and the game of the week. An exciting fixture. Newcastle showed what they are capable of against Villa and in a way, against the best team in the league too. Liverpool are still looking a bit out of sorts and were quite fortunate to come away with a win in their last fixture. Newcastle will not make such errors and I think they will go back to winning ways.

Prediction: 3-1

Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW2

On By Deryl AdudaIn Premier LeagueLeave a comment

Nottingham Forest vs. Sheffield United
H2H: W4 D6 L5
Fab: Both sides are still looking for their first win of the season. Forest managed to keep it respectable on their North London trip last Saturday, but probably it’s a case of what if Steve Cooper had been braver from the start. Indeed their late attacking subs brought a lot of discomfort to the Arsenal defence and for this game Anthony Elanga and Taiwo Awoniyi should start. The Blades on the other hand suffered a narrow loss to Crystal Palace on their return to the top flight and you get the feeling it’s only about to get tougher for them. Fully expect the home crowd to roar the hosts to the win.
Prediction: 2-0
Bobo: On the books, this seems a pretty balanced match. Both teams had difficult starts to the league and will be looking to gain a crucial three points. Nottingham seem the better of the teams here but Sheffield were quite alright against a really formidable opponent. I think MD2 will start with a draw.
Prediction: 1-1

Fulham vs. Brentford
H2H: W3 D2 L7
Fab: Fulham did well to grind out a win at Everton and even as they seek to sort out their forward line with the impending departure of Aleksandar Mitrovic should still be favourites for this encounter. Brentford didn’t seem to be doing badly without Ivan Toney. They still managed to get two goals against quality opposition in Spurs and will hope their direct counter attacking display will propel them to the win. Still, I’ve got to go with the Cottagers on this one.
Prediction: 2-1
Bobo: An exciting match for the neutral. Brentford showed that they can hold their own even without Ivan Toney. Fulham got the rather expected win against Everton last weekend and are also looking quite good. This is a tough one given how close the previous fixtures have been. I’ll keep it close and think Brentford have the quality to just edge it and win the away game.
Prediction: 2-3

Liverpool v. Bournemouth
H2H: W12 D1 L2
Fab: Liverpool should be good enough to get their first win at Anfield despite coming out of the Chelsea trip with a somewhat lucky point. They’re still taking hits in their quest to reinforce their midfield, but probably that underbelly won’t be too exposed by a Bournemouth side which might be ruing not getting maximum points in their more winnable fixture last weekend. Liverpool absolutely ran riot in this particular fixture last season and while it won’t be another 9-0 scoreline, the Reds should still win convincingly.
Prediction: 4-1
Bobo: Both teams shared the spoils in their respective matches. Liverpool were not as impressive as I imagined they would be. A small teething problem. They come up against an interesting Bournemouth side. Liverpool have won all the matches they have played against the Cherries at home and I expect this to continue.
Prediction: 3-1

Wolves vs. Brighton
H2H: W2 D7 L5
Fab: Wolves managed to hold their own against Man United at Old Trafford and will feel hard done by considering the penalty decision that wasn’t given in their favour which could have earned them a precious point. Brighton’s quality shone through against debutants Luton and will look to pick up from there. Just maybe though, Wolves should have a steely resolve to avoid the loss.
Prediction: 1-1
Bobo: The Wolves team had an impressive performance against Manchester United. They were hard done by by the poor officiating. They showed that they can hold their own regardless what was happening in the background. Brighton were their usual impressive selves and they have their present and past going for them. I think Brighton will be too good for this Wolves team as they can score the goals. The Wolves will have to improve on the goalscoring front if they want to stay up.
Prediction: 1-4

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester United
H2H: W10 D14 L44
Fab: Spurs adjusted to the loss of Harry Kane by throwing their defenders into the deep end of attack and it paid off with non-regular goalscorers Cristian Romero and Emerson Royal getting the goals. Their overall play was encouraging but the same cannot be said of Man United who were at best plucky and lucky in their win against Wolves. United’s attack (and midfield) will have to greatly improve if they are to get something from this match, which I don’t think they will.
Prediction: 2-1
Bobo: A cagey and feisty affair is how I would describe this. It is so difficult to judge both teams from their first match. The Red Devils were the worse team in their fixture and the same can be said of Spurs. You would also have to go back a while for a Tottenham win against the Red Devils. Manchester United have done traditionally well in this fixture. That said, I think it will end in a draw like the last one because United do not seem comfortable at the moment and neither do Spurs.
Prediction: 2-2

Manchester City vs. Newcastle United
H2H: W30 D10 L9
Fab: This blockbuster is actually the fixture of the weekend and it’s a pointer to how high Newcastle’s stock has risen. Indeed, the league leaders arrive at the Etihad on quite a high after that impressive demolition of Aston Villa and will be looking to cause the upset. The champions didn’t really get out of second gear in their opening fixture but still ran out comfortable winners. That’s the pedigree their opponents have to contend with. It will be interesting to see just how City cope with the absence of their creative hub Kevin de Bruyne who’s out injured for a lengthy spell and of course the Magpies will hope to capitalize on that. This match could go either way and just maybe a draw is a fair result?
Prediction: 2-2
Bobo: This is the pick of the week. An exciting match for all the right and wrong reasons. Newcastle were so impressive against Aston Villa and City were their usual selves. It will be interesting to see how Newcastle handle this challenge. Of the 5 recent meetings, 4 have ended with at least 4 goals. Only the last one ended 2-0. I think the two teams will go back to delivering a high scoring match ending in a draw.
Prediction: 3-3

Aston Villa vs. Everton
H2H: W24 D19 L14
Fab: The Villans are coming from the shock of their last weekend after being annihilated 5-1 by Newcastle and will want to immediately get their confidence back up. Everton look to struggle after failing to even score at home and represent the perfect punch bag for the home side. Villa though are encouraged by how well new signing Moussa Diaby has taken to life at the club and if he’s up for it, they should win.
Prediction: 3-0
Bobo: Villa will want to swiftly forget what happened against the Toons in their opening day. They were not too bad and the injury to Mings definitely played a part in this. The quality of the team is evident and they just need to find the right balance. They come up against the worst finishers in the league. Everton seem like they will continue their woes in front of goal and it will likely be a second loss from two.
Prediction: 3-0

West Ham United vs. Chelsea
H2H: W16 D10 L29
Fab: Chelsea’s new crop of signings showed tremendous courage to take the game to a tricky Liverpool side and it seems that will be the mantra for the Mauricio Pochettino era – no fear. West Ham did reasonably well at Bournemouth despite failing to hold on for the win and will need even more heart for this derby. Moises Caicedo could make his debut after his mega move, and I feel his presence might be the difference.
Prediction: 1-2
Bobo: A London derby that promises to be interesting. Chelsea’s new signings all have a point to prove and if their performance against Liverpool is anything to go by then I expect that they should get on the score sheet. The Hammers are relentless and they will give this Chelsea team a run for their money. I think the Blues will win it but only just.
Prediction: 3-2

Crystal Palace vs. Arsenal
H2H: W4 D8 L16
Fab: Arsenal won on opening weekend despite failing to fire on all cylinders and that could probably be a tad bit concerning. Palace did well to get off the block at Bramall Lane and now retreat to home comforts of Selhurst Park for this London derby. Could be close but the Gunners, even without the sidelined Jurrien Timber should have just enough quality to get it over the line.
Prediction: 0-2
Bobo: Another London Derby and two very exciting teams. Both teams won by the finest of margins on the weekend and both were expected to do a bit better. Their weaknesses were highlighted in that first game and I expect that both managers will address this. Arsenal have great quality at the moment and I think they have enough firepower to shoot down the Eagles. It all just depends on how they use it.
Prediction: 1-3



Fab and Bobo’s Picks – MW1

On By Deryl AdudaIn Premier LeagueLeave a comment

Burnley vs. Manchester City
H2H: W1 D3 L16
Fab: The Vincent Kompany derby is here to kick things off and it couldn’t be more intriguing. No one could have thought that Kompany’s coaching stardom could soar so high when he traded the Jupiler Pro League for the Championship but my oh my! His Burnley side in swashbuckling fashion tore apart the Championship in a manner hardly witnessed before. So, it’s only fair that his maiden bow in the English top flight comes against the club that made him (and that he made). City are reeling off that dramatic Community Shield loss to Arsenal last weekend that may just have given hope to everyone else. My gut says a draw, but Pep Guardiola has traditionally done well against the Clarets so yeah, a win for the champions.
Prediction: 2-3
Bobo: Welcome back to the Premier League Burnley and what a welcome this is! The champions of the top tier and the second tier is a good way to kick off 23/24. Burnley are back and they have a new style this time under the leadership of former Manchester City captain, Vincent Kompany. Manchester City are still the team to beat this season. They may seem weaker but do not be fooled. This will be an interesting match but it should be a win for Manchester City.
Prediction: 1-2

Arsenal vs. Nottingham Forest
H2H: W9 D5 L4
Fab: Arsenal ran riot 5-0 in this fixture last season and it could easily be replicated. Caution though, for the home team, is that they lost to Forest at the City Ground in May. The story this Saturday lunchtime will be about American goalkeeper Matt Turner who could make his Nottingham Forest debut against the club he left just this week. He will no doubt have a point to prove to his former employers who just couldn’t give him the number one shirt. Can Arsenal be more impenetrable at the back at home? It was such a concern last season, their inability to keep clean sheets at the Emirates. Speaking of keepers, could Turner’s replacement (pending confirmation) David Raya make a surprise debut in goal? Probably not, but it should be a statement-making win for title-chasing Arsenal.
Prediction: 4-1
Bobo: Arsenal fans will be hoping that Arsenal have forgotten the end of last season which included a 1-0 loss to the first opponents of this season. Both teams have strengthened and Forest are certainly looking more stable at the start of the season. That said, Arsenal should have the weapons required to get all the three points.
Prediction: 3-1


Bournemouth vs. West Ham United
H2H: W4 D2 L2
Fab: Bournemouth did quite commendably well to retain top flight status last season but they did dispense with the mastermind of that, Gary O’neill and have replaced him with Andoni Iraola, probably hoping for a more continental approach to their game. West Ham have had quite a time in the last 3 months. They won a European title, lost their captain Declan Rice for a (then) British record fee and could still lose another of their key midfielders, Lucas Paqueta to Man City for quite a tidy sum. Still, you wonder if their inability to get deals of their own over line leaves them just a tad bit weak and precarious. I expect their start of the season to be rough, and it will start at the Cherries.
Prediction: 2-1
Bobo: The Cherries are an exciting team and play some beautiful attacking football. West Ham had a paradoxical time last season, winning a European cup and constantly being mentioned in the relegation battle. The Hammers have also lost their best player and do not seem to have adequately replaced him. I think they are in too much of disarray at the moment and the Cherries can capitalize on this.
Prediction: 2-0


Brighton vs. Luton
H2H: W1 D0 L1
Fab: Admit it. You have missed watching Brighton in PL action. Thankfully the wait is over and we get to see what Roberto de Zerbi has in store for us this season. Also, of curiosity is the kind of test that Luton Town will provide after securing promotion via the play offs last season. Either way this has all the hallmarks of a baptism by fire for Luton.
Prediction: 3-0
Bobo: Brighton were so impressive last season and they are likely to better this season even after losing Alexis Mac Allister and the potential loss of Moises Caicedo. I do not know much about Luton but I am excited to have them in the Premier League. This is one of the worst starts they could get though and I expect a resounding win for Brighton.
Prediction: 4-0


Everton vs. Fulham
H2H: W19 D3 L12
Fab: Serial underachievers Everton welcome Fulham to Goodison Park hoping that this season is kinder and that lessons have been learnt. But that’s just it – hope. There isn’t much in terms of what they’ve done in recruitment to suggest that they’ve well and fully turned the corner. Fulham look to pick up from where they left off last season and despite coach Marco Silva having flirted with a mega money move to Saudi Arabia in the summer, they should be able to heap misery on the home side.
Prediction: 1-2
Bobo: A match between last season’s strugglers and a high-flying Fulham team. Everton have only added Ashley Young and Arnaut Danjuma to their ranks. Quite baffling for a team that simply could not score last season. Fulham look set to continue where they left off last season and they will be a thorn on many teams’ sides. I think they will start their challenge with a win and Everton’s struggles will continue from last season.
Prediction: 0-2


Sheffield United vs. Crystal Palace
H2H: W4 D0 L6
Fab: Sheffield make a return to the big time and they welcome a tricky customer in Palace. Even without Wilfried Zaha, you still have to fancy the visitors here. Then again, the Blades at home are no pushovers so the spoils just might be shared.
Prediction: 1-1
Bobo: Crystal Palace were looking good at the end of last season. They have lost Zaha but they still have lots of talent in their team that can make a difference for them. Sheffield have also experienced their own losses and particularly painful is Iliman Ndiaye’s departure. They have also lost James McAtee and Tommy Doyle which makes them seem weak against a really good Eagles side. Still, I do not want to write Sheffield off and I think they will share the spoils at Bramall Lane.
Prediction: 2-2


Newcastle vs. Aston Villa
H2H: W24 D17 L12
Fab: Could Aston Villa be the surprise package of the season? Indeed some pundits are tipping them to gatecrash the top 4 party cum May so maybe there’s something in there? Newcastle themselves will be playing Champions League football and just how ready they are to juggle between domestic and European assignments remains to be seen. Unai Emery came in and transformed the Villans so impressively and with the addition of, in particular, of Moussa Diaby from Bayer Leverkusen, he definitely wants to kick things up a notch. This should be one of the stand out games of the weekend.
Prediction: 2-2
Bobo: This is the match of the gameweek. Two interesting sides on the rise. They were both brilliant last season and they have added some immense talents to their ranks. Sandro Tonali for the Toon and Diaby for Villa are the picks. I think it will be an interesting match, end-to-end stuff with the Toons just about edging it.
Prediction: 3-2

Brentford vs. Tottenham Hotspur
H2H: W1 D2 L2
Fab: Grudge match, anyone? So Spurs wanted Brentford goalie Raya but baulked at his club’s valuation. Weeks later Brentford negotiates with Spurs’ mortal enemy Arsenal for the same player at a reduced valuation and on a loan deal to boot! Even I would be seething. Oh, and there’s the small matter of Spurs’ talisman Harry Kane having just agreed a move away to Bayern Munich and you suddenly wonder how long a season they will be experiencing. The home side too have to embark on life without their main man Ivan Toney who’s serving his suspension after his betting misdemeanors. It will either be feisty or drab, but I fancy Brentford for the win.
Prediction: 2-0
Bobo: Brentford were also a standout team last season while things did not go as well as expected for Spurs. Brentford do not have Ivan Toney for some months while Spurs hired a new coach and added James Maddison to their ranks. This is a difficult one to call and I think it may end up being a draw.
Prediction: 1-1

Chelsea vs. Liverpool
H2H: W27 D24 L28
Fab: Talking of grudge matches, this one is up that same alley. Both clubs, especially Chelsea underperformed during the last campaign and will be looking to right some wrongs to avoid permanent membership in mid-table mediocrity. By the time this match kicks off Moises Caicedo could well be lining up for Liverpool (or could he?) after seeming to be headed to Stamford Bridge all summer. Chelsea could well be still reeling from that smash and grab by the Reds. Christopher Nkunku’s lengthy injury lay off also throws a spanner into the Blues’ works and it remains to be seen where the goals will come from. Liverpool may have lost a number of generals in their midfield engine room including captain Jordan Henderson but they should still have more street-smarts in them to get the result here.
Prediction: 1-2
Bobo: I definitely did not expect such a match on the first day but here we are. Chelsea were a shambles last season. They seemed to have lots of money and no plans. They have done some business but it is not clear what they are trying. We have to wait and see. Liverpool have gone about their business quietly. They have acquired some good players, done their replacements, and look just about set for the new season. This will likely be a break out season for Darwin Nunez and an important one for Cody Gakpo. I think that Liverpool are just a bit more organized and they should get an important 3 points.
Prediction: 1-3

Manchester United vs. Wolves
H2H: W15 D4 L5
Fab: Wolves are anything but headed in the right direction. Julen Lopetegui quit as manager after disagreement with the board on transfer activity and has been replaced by Gary O’neill – hardly the ideal preparation for a trip to, of all places, Old Trafford. United begin life without long serving goalkeeper David De Gea and in his stead there’s the interesting character in Champions League finalist, Andre Onana. The Cameroonian offers what the Spaniard couldn’t with his feet, but can he also offer the reflexes and saves that defined De Gea? Wolves won’t have as much attacking power to bring Onana into sharp focus so probably seems like a heavy win for Erik Ten Hag’s men.
Prediction: 4-0
Bobo: Manchester United are addressing some of the problems that affected them last season. They have a goalkeeper better suited to the modern game and have a striker that may provide much needed goals and upfront play. They are in a good position to retain their top four position, at the very least. Wolves have issues from here to wherever. I’d predict that they are relegation fodder and should be there for the taking for Manchester United. This should be a routine win for the Red Devils.
Prediction: 3-0

Benson Omalla – Boy Wonder

On By Deryl AdudaIn Chapa Dimba na SafaricomLeave a comment

With the game running out and Kisumu Day fans growing ever more restless, an inviting ball is floated into the box where teenage prodigy Benson Ochieng Oluoch – or as he is better known, Benson Omalla – has pulled away from the last line of Orongo School’s defence dragging with him at least 3 defenders. Weighing up his options in next to no time, he opts to chest the ball down in the most nonchalant manner for an onrushing midfielder who drives into the space vacated by Orongo’s backline as they scramble to cover one of the most exciting football talents emerging from the lakeside city. With the goal at his mercy, the aforementioned midfielder tries to lob the keeper. As the ball floats above the keeper’s outstretched hands towards the goal, silence engulfs the cold Kisumu morning. He has to score.

He doesn’t! Incredibly, the lobbed effort is too heavy. Kisumu Day students/fans – some dressed in green sweaters and some in white vests – lined up along the touchline can barely believe what they’ve seen. Their team has squandered yet another opportunity to break the deadlock. Football is a simple game, they say, and yet it is so difficult to do the simple things. But, in one move, Benson Omalla did a very simple thing effortlessly to create space and set up a glorious chance for his team. His movement, his touch, his vision and finally the execution of it all was magic. I travelled 350 kilometres from Nairobi to watch Benson Omalla in Kisumu, and he conjured magic right in front of my eyes.

—

Saturday morning in Kisumu is unusually wet. It had been raining for the entire week leading up to the weekend. I brave the elements and make my way to Kisumu Day where I hope to have an audience with the hottest young talent in the country, a 17-year-old making waves in the Kenya Premier League. My handler, Coach Anthony Oballa, head coach of reigning Chapa Dimba National Champions Mayatta United had made arrangements for me to speak to him. He insisted I do so. If you know Anthony Oballa and what he has been able to achieve in football, then you know his knowledge and judgement of young talent are top-notch. I trust his word.  

It’s the first game of the pool stages of the annual Kisumu Boys Open (KB Open), a competition organized by my alma mater Kisumu Boys that features schools from around Kisumu County. This first match is played at Kisumu Day grounds Coach Oballa informs me that he won’t be present in our meeting with Omalla. So instead he sends Coach Carina Baraza to guide me through security checks at the school gate before I am allowed to speak to Benson. We get in and find shelter under the lush, green trees that perfectly align the streets of Kisumu Day. I notice students slowly gathering around the football pitch as they finish their breakfast – a hearty serving of white porridge and oversized mandazis. It’s time for the game. Shortly after, a group of players burst through the crowd onto the pitch to begin their warm-up. Coach Carina lights up and excitedly points towards the group of players warming up.

 “Ndio yule, ako ndani anatafuta Ball. Amevaa number 10!” 

I clean the raindrops off my glasses as I squint, trying to see that far up the pitch and then I finally see him. Boy wonder. Kisumu Day’s Number 10. School Captain. Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom All-Star. Fresh from scoring a hat-trick in the Kenya Premier League.The pride and hope of Manyatta United, his boyhood club and Awasi border, his birthplace. He stands out from the rest.

Coach Carina pulls him from the rondo he was in and politely asks him to come talk to The Dug Out. He obliges. Great footballers aren’t the greatest talkers. They prefer to do their talking on the pitch. Benson isn’t any different. He is shy and reserved. It’s a trait that runs through the family, a fact I’ll discover later. Soon as I begin speaking to him, we are surrounded by his schoolmates who are eager to listen to him speak. I ask him how he juggles football and schoolwork. He tells me it’s a challenge that has been made easier by his school as they fully support talented students in pursuit of their dreams. For him, the goal is to be a professional footballer. But before he becomes one, he has to strike a critical balance between classwork and his true passion. A candidate in this year’s KCSE, his Form 4 White classmates inform me that any perceived loss of focus by Omalla is unfounded as he performs well in class. “Ako sawa class sana”, they tell proudly me. 

—

From an early age, Benson was destined for greatness. In 2015, while playing for Chipolopolo, he received the Man of the Match award after scoring twice in a game at Kisumu Stadium. He then joined Manyatta United where, under the tutelage of Coach Anthony Oballa and Coach Carina Baraza, he blossomed into a fine striker. “Manyatta United tulianza tukiwa wadogo. Tulianza na Under 12, nikapromotiwa kuenda Under 14, then Under 16, then Senior team.” Omalla recalls. Limited by a lack of training equipment, worn-out footballs, broken cones and uneven training pitch, he was a key cog in the Manyatta United team that won several tournaments including Copa Coca-Cola and the Provincial title. Ultimately, Chapa Dimba na Safaricom became the Everest they wanted to summit.

The 2019 Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament was the platform Benson Omalla craved and when it kicked off, he took his chance with both hands. At only 17 years of age, his performances in the Nyanza Regional Finals drew a lot of interest from scouts and coaches. His brace in the final against Nyamira Boys sealed a 5-0 win, ensuring that he won the Golden Boot with 5 goals and helping his team qualify for the National Finals in Meru. His performances in the Nyanza Regional finals were consistently at high levels. He scored, assisted and led Manyatta United’s forward line with such distinction that his name was one of the first to be considered for the Chapa Dimba All-Star Team. Unsurprisingly, he was bound for Salou, Spain for a 10-day training camp that he credits for his development so far.

Spain was a world away, literally and figuratively. New boots and swag, all-weather pitches, world-class training, La Liga-qualified coaches and a Champions League winner, Luis Garcia, sharing incredible football wisdom all within a span of 10 days. The icing on the cake was the visit to Camp Nou, one of football’s great cathedrals to watch Barcelona beat Getafe 2-0. Benson had learnt the basics of the game during his time at Manyatta United. In Spain, he learnt the finer details of the game. He became more aware of the tactical side and the mental fortitude required to be a star. The coaches emphasized the importance of unreserved dedication to improving one’s self as a player. Watching Barcelona beat Getafe 2-0 just days after their historic collapse at Anfielto Liverpool in the Champions League Semi-Finals perhaps provided the most important lesson of all, dealing with setbacks. Benson saw what he could become, what he could achieve, where he could play and the levels he could reach. Manyatta United had lit the spark. The trip to Spain turned into a burning desire. “Nikimaliza shule (nataka) nicheze kama one or two years (KPL) and then niende abroad” Benson told me.

Duncan Odhiambo, Benson’s younger sibling speaks proudly of his brother. In fact, Benson is his hero. He follows all his games closely. Duncan was at Kisumu Stadium to watch Benson bag his first top-flight hat trick. He giddily tells me, “Alifunga mbili first half, akafunga moja second half”. He was there on November 25th, 2019 to watch Benson score a 91st-minute winner against KCB, securing all three points for Western Stima in a tight Kenya Premier League match. 

Duncan informs me that despite having the world at his feet, Benson has remained grounded and down to earth just as he was before all the attention. He still is the caring and protective big brother. He still walks to school every morning as he used to before. The maturity he’s shown on the pitch is also evident at home as, instead of launching a well-deserved and justified spending spree with his first big cheque after helping Manyatta United lift the Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom National Title, he instead bought household items for his family, the most important being the big tv that is a fixture in their Nyamasaria home today allowing Duncan, Benson and their family to watch their heroes in Europe. Benson Omalla says he models his game to mimic his hero, Marcus Rashford, Manchester United’s young number 10 who is also carrying the hopes and dreams of one of the world’s biggest teams. With such admiration, it is no surprise then that Duncan is following in his big brother’s footsteps by leading the line for Manyatta United’s Under 14 side.

—

Sunday afternoon, Benson would lead his team to yet another title, the KB Open Tournament. The draw against Orongo only served to harden their resolve and they swept away the competition with relative ease. At this moment, education seems to be holding him back as he only plays home games for Western Stima. It’s impractical for him to be involved with the team full-time. Even then, he has contributed seven goals in the KPL this season and is on course for a double-digit tally. He is also the youngest recipient of the Sports Journalist Association of Kenya Player of the Month Award at only 17 years of age. Most importantly, his exploits have inspired a generation of young footballers in Western Kenya and beyond. 

Benson will keep an eye on the Nyanza Region Chapa Dimba na Safaricom from the sidelines. He is ineligible to play by virtue of being a Kenya Premier League player. But he will be cheering on his old side, Manyatta United, hoping that they repeat their triumph last year. His message to the players participating in this year’s edition is to give the competition their all. “Players wakuwe na morale. Chapa Dimba ni real na inapea vijana platform ya kuonekana huku nje.”

*This story was originally published in 2020.

Chapa Dimba

On By kJamesyIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom: A Platform for Youths to Showcase Their Talent

Football is the most popular sport in Kenya, and it is played by people of all ages and backgrounds. In recent years, Safaricom has been a major supporter of youth football in Kenya, through its Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament.

The Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament is a national football competition for male and female youths aged between 16 and 20 years. The tournament is open to all teams, regardless of their financial or social status.

The tournament is played in a knockout format, with teams progressing through the rounds until they reach the national finals. The national finals are held at a major stadium in Kenya, and they are a major event in the Kenyan football calendar.

The Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament has been a huge success since it was launched in 2016. Over 10,000 teams have participated in the tournament, and it has helped to identify and develop some of Kenya’s brightest young football talents.

The tournament has also had a positive impact on the communities in which it is played. It has helped to promote peace and unity, and it has given young people a positive outlet for their energy and enthusiasm.

In addition to the sporting benefits, the Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament has also provided young people with valuable life skills. The players have learned about teamwork, discipline, and respect. They have also learned how to deal with disappointment and success.

The Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament is a valuable asset to Kenyan football. It is a platform for young people to showcase their talent, and it is helping to develop the next generation of Kenyan footballers.

Regional Competitions

The Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament is played in eight regional zones across Kenya: Nairobi, Eastern, Western, Nyanza, Rift, Coast, Central, and North Eastern.

The regional competitions are played in a knockout format, with the winners of each region progressing to the national finals.

The regional competitions are a great opportunity for young players to showcase their talent and to progress to the national finals. They are also a great way for players to develop their skills and to learn from other players.

National Finals

The national finals of the Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament are held at a major stadium in Kenya. The finals are a major event in the Kenyan football calendar, and they attract a large crowd of spectators.

The national finals are played in a knockout format, with the winners of each region progressing to the final. The final is a thrilling contest, and it is always a closely fought affair.

The national finals are a great opportunity for young players to showcase their talent in front of a large audience. They are also a great way for players to win valuable prizes, such as scholarships and professional contracts.

Impact of the Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom Tournament

The Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament has had a positive impact on Kenyan football. It has helped to identify and develop some of Kenya’s brightest young football talents.

The tournament has also helped to promote peace and unity, and it has given young people a positive outlet for their energy and enthusiasm.

In addition to the sporting benefits, the Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament has also provided young people with valuable life skills. The players have learned about teamwork, discipline, and respect. They have also learned how to deal with disappointment and success.

The Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom tournament is a valuable asset to Kenyan football. It is a platform for young people to showcase their talent, and it is helping to develop the next generation of Kenyan footballers.