involvement.damugeltd.co.ke

Category: Sports

  • Harambee Stars Lose Friendly On Home Soil

    Harambee Stars Lose Friendly On Home Soil

    {Photo courtesy of Capital News}

     

    By  Dennis Mungai

     

    Harambee Stars lost their international friendly match against South Sudan 1-0 at the Kasarani Stadium on Tuesday evening. The only goal of the game was scored by Tito Okello in the second minute of the match. Kenya’s coach Firat made only one change to the team that beat Qatar 2-1 a few days back. Brian Mandela started in defence as Stars looked to beat South Sudan for the fifth time in row in matches between the two teams.

    That was not to happen however, as the home team fell behind after two minutes. South Sudan held on and defended their lead till the final whistle, with Stars missing out on chances through Michael Olunga. This was Harambee Stars’ first match at home in 2 years, mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic leading to stoppage of football across the country.

    Coach Firat is hoping his boys can make amends and deliver better results ahead of their FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers later this month. Harambee Stars are in the same group with Burundi, Ivory Coast, Guinea and Seychelles.

  • Uncertainty Over the Future of Manchester United Star

    Uncertainty Over the Future of Manchester United Star

    [Photo courtesy of Getty images]

    Antony’s future at Manchester United has taken a sudden turn as the club has announced a “period of absence” for him, and his return to the field is now uncertain.

    This decision comes in the midst of disturbing allegations made by his ex-girlfriend, Gabriela Cavalin, which have led to investigations by police in both Sao Paulo and Manchester. These allegations include claims of physical and mental abuse.

    As a result, Antony will not be participating in the training sessions at Carrington, reserved for players not on international duty. Although he denies any wrongdoing, he has agreed with the club to postpone his return to training until further notice to address the allegations properly.

    Manchester United has acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and is taking the matter seriously. Players who have not been involved in international matches are expected to return to training, but Antony’s situation remains uncertain as the investigations continue.

  • The Days When The Game Of Football Was Just That; A Game

    The Days When The Game Of Football Was Just That; A Game

    {Photo courtesy of Vagabondish}

     

    By Dennis Mungai

     

    Anyone who is a true football fan will remember the last day of the 2011/12 English Premier League season very well. Sergio Aguero scoring the last goal of the season to help Man City beat QPR 3-2 and win the first Premier League trophy for the Citizens. Their noisy neighbors Man United had won their match and a draw for City would have seen the title go to Old Trafford. So memorable is this moment that outside Etihad Stadium, City’s home ground there’s a statue of Aguero celebrating with his shirt off.

    Eleven years later, no one would have envisioned what today’s football has become. It seems there’s always something extra to fight for, not just the trophy and medals. Nowadays Premier League matches begin by players taking a knee to show their support in the “No room for racism” initiative. This was mainly brought by the infamous George Floyd,a black man who was murdered by white cops back in 2020, sparking a “Black Lives Matter” campaign across the globe.

    Black players have suffered the worst due to racism by fans, officials and even other people. Take the Champions League game between PSG and Istanbul Basaksehir for instance. One of the members of the Istanbul technical team was racially abused by a UEFA official. The players got so infuriated that they left the match and was forfeited in the 25th minute.

    Video Assistant Referee ( VAR) is another problem. Teams have lost games and players sent off for mistakes committed only for the referees’ official body to issue an apology for unfair treatment. Countless cases of players being red carded then having it withdrawn have floored the football world in recent past. The unforgettable one is Man United’s game against Brighton. Players had to be brought from the dressing room way after the game was over just to take a penalty after VAR intervened and overturned the ref’s decision.  Of course the technology has its advantages, like helping define whether a ball had completely crossed the line for a goal or was cleared out in the nick of time.

    The issues surrounding gender equality have also slipped into the game. The recently- concluded  FIFA Women’s World Cup has many fans questioning the women- empowerment agenda and how far it should go. People have learnt more about the women’s game because of the drama that surrounds it and not the game itself. Spanish FA président Rubiales is now facing sexual assault charges for kissing World Cup- winning Spanish player Hermoso on the mouth.

    I have not even delved into the Saudi league and the ridiculous amounts of money players are shifting clubs for. There’s debate that value of football is now being equated directly with money spent. LGBTQ community has also gained support, with June being the pride month. The corner flags, stadium designs, background colors on social media pages, captains’ armbands, even boots’ laces all show support for this community not only during that month but generally.

    Sometimes I watch that Aguero goal again and just take in that moment. The aura in that stadium at that exact moment when he celebrates with the fans, while their rivals in the other stadium have dejected faces. We might never go back to such days, when it was only football that mattered and nothing else, but it was special while it lasted.

  • Ballon D’or 2023 nominees revealed

    Ballon D’or 2023 nominees revealed

    {Photo courtesy of Remezcla}

     

    By Dennis Mungai

     

    The 2023 Ballon D’Or nominees list has been released ahead of the awards ceremony slated for October 30 in Paris, France. Football’s most prestigious award went to Karim Benzema last year after winning the Champions League and La Liga with Real Madrid. The nomination for this year’s award has taken into consideration not only domestic league form but also performance on the global stage, notably the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

    Lionel Messi is in contention and will battle it out with fellow World Cup finalist Kylian Mbappe and his Argentinian teammate Emiliano Martinez. Another Argentine, Lautaro Martinez is also in the list after having won the World Cup and reached the Champions League final with Inter Milan. Manchester City has a decent representation in the list, with Ruben Dias, Kevin De Bruyne  Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Golden Boot winner Erling Haaland all being nominated.

    This was after Man City won the Champions League for the first time in the club’s history to complete an unprecedented treble. Sevilla’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made it to the list after his heroics helped Morocco reach the semis of the 2022 FIFA World Cup as the only African team to have gone that far.

    Despite losing out on the Premier League trophy last season, Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard have made the list as well. There are quite a number of new names on the list, with first time nominations for players like  Napoli’s Kvichi Kvarastkhelia, Man City’s Josko Gvardiol, who won German Cup for Leipzig last season and Man U’s keeper Andre Onana, who reached Champions League final with Inter Milan last season.

  • English Premier League Review

    English Premier League Review

    {Photo courtesy of SN}

     

    By Dennis Mungai

    Round three of the English Premier League ended yesterday with the fixture between Liverpool and Newcastle United closing out what has been an interesting weekend. Defending champions Manchester City had to scrap and settle for a 2-1 win over newly promoted Sheffield United. Last season’s top scorer Erling Haaland missed a penalty but still scored with a header for his third goal this season.

    Arsenal blew a 2-1 lead to concede late in the match and end with a 2-2 draw against Fulham at the Emirates Stadium. Bukayo Saka scored a penalty and Eddie Nketiah tapped in the second goal. But Joah Palhinha poked in a late equalizer to spoil Arteta’s perfect start to the season.  Liverpool needed Darwin Nunez’s last minute heroics to beat Newcastle 2-1 as he came off the bench to score both the equalizer and winner for the Reds. Anthony Gordon had put Newcastle ahead but Virgil Van Dijk was sent off some minutes later for denying Isak a goal scoring opportunity.

    Brentford drew 1-1 with Crystal Palace and Everton ended the third straight weekend without a goal or a point as they lost 1-0 to Wolves. James Maddison continued his hot form for Spurs with another goal as they beat Bournemouth 2-0. Elsewhere, Brighton’s fine start to the season was ended by a 3-1 home defeat to West Ham, inspired by new signing James Ward-Prowse stellar perfomance.

    At Old Trafford, Manchester United had to come back from an early surprise by Nottingham Forest. The Red Devils were 2-0 down after just four minutes thanks to goals by Taiwo Awoniyi and Willy Boly. Goals by Christian Eriksen and Casemiro restored some calm for Ten Hag’s men before Bruno Fernandes scored the winning goal via a penalty in the second half to secure all three points. Chelsea got their first win under new manager Pochettino by beating Luton Town 3-0 on Friday. Raheem Sterling scored twice, with new signing Nicolas Jackson getting his name on the scoresheet as well.

  • Harry Kane Shines on Home Debut as Bayern Munich Defeats Augsburg 3-1

    Harry Kane Shines on Home Debut as Bayern Munich Defeats Augsburg 3-1

    [Photo courtesy of Allfootball]

    By Eugene Oyier

    Harry Kane made a dazzling home debut for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, guiding his team to a resounding 3-1 victory against Augsburg. This defeat marked Augsburg’s 15th consecutive winless away game, underscoring Bayern’s dominance.

    Bavarian giants Bayern, who had previously scored four against Werder Bremen, exploited Augsburg’s defensive vulnerabilities. Despite Augsburg showing promise on the counter, their chances were marred by Ermedin Demirović’s missed opportunity.

    Bayern’s breakthrough came through fortunate circumstances, as a rebound off Felix Uduokhai followed Leroy Sané’s shot, putting them ahead. Minutes later, a handball in the box led to a penalty, confidently converted by Kane for his debut goal at Allianz Arena.

    Kane, eager to add to his tally, narrowly missed from an angle. Augsburg struggled to contain Bayern’s pace, with Dahmen’s reflex save and Rexhbecaj’s block preventing further goals. An unlucky strike from Sané hit the post.

    Kane completed his brace with a well-placed poke over Dahmen, courtesy of Alphonso Davies’ precise setup. Augsburg managed a late consolation goal through Demirović to finish 3-1.

    Bayern’s victory solidifies their Bundesliga standing, with Kane’s performance hinting at a promising season ahead.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Malkia Strikers Clinch 10th African Nations Championship

    Malkia Strikers Clinch 10th African Nations Championship

    [Photo courtesy of the star]

    In a stunning display of skill and determination, the Malkia Strikers of Kenya have emerged victorious in the African Nations Championship!

    Kenya’s Malkia Strikers defeated Egypt 3-0 to win the African Nations Championship, giving them their tenth continental championship. With this historic victory, an 8-year wait comes to a triumphant end, giving Kenya a firm hold on the 10th championship.

    With a remarkable 3-0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-14) victory over Egypt in Cameroon, they were able to emerge victorious. As members of the African Volleyball Confederation (CAVB), they have qualified for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship thanks to the victory. Additionally, they have already qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

    With their unwavering teamwork and exceptional talent, they dominated the competition, leaving their opponents in awe.

    The Malkia Strikers’ path to success was not an easy one. They were up against formidable squads from throughout the continent. Their unrivaled spirit and unrelenting quest of excellence, however, catapulted them to the top.

    The Malkia Strikers, led by their excellent captain and star player Mercy Moim, demonstrated their prowess in every encounter. Throughout the competition, their strong spikes, crisp serves, and solid defense kept their opponents on their toes.

    Now that they have won the African Nations Championship, the Malkia Strikers have their sights set on the Olympics in Paris! They are adamant about representing Kenya on the international scene and bringing home Olympic gold.

  • Debut to Forget for Caicedo

    Debut to Forget for Caicedo

    {Photo courtesy of Goal.com}

     

    By Dennis Mungai

    Chelsea’s new signing Moises Caicedo made his debut in a substitute appearance for the Blues. The Ecuadorian, first of that nationality to play for the Blues, came in the second half in place of Ben Chilwell and was welcomed by the travelling Chelsea fans in the match against West Ham.

    It was soon a debut to forget however, after Caicedo fouled former Chelsea player Emerson in the penalty box in the dying minutes of the game. Lucas Paqueta scored the resulting penalty to finish off the match with a 3-1 win, leaving new Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino still winless going into the third week of the season. The other West Ham goals were scored by Michail Antonio and Nayef Aguerd, who was later red-carded in the second half.

    The 115 million- pound signing is one of the many players brought in a “rebuild” mission for Chelsea, but if today’s result is anything to go by, there’s still lots of work to be done. New captain Reece James is out with injury, again and the decision to captain Chilwell leaves many confused. There’s a lack of experience in the squad and even with 75% ball possesion, the Blues were not able to seriously threaten West Ham keeper Alphonse Areola. This may be a long shot, but if Romelu Lukaku does not leave the club, Poch may be forced to include him in his plans.

    Chelsea face Luton Town next on Friday, with the latest signing Romeo Lavia hoping to make his debut. The 21 yr old moved from Southampton for about 50 Million pounds and is looking to complete the midfield trio of himself, Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez. Chelsea are currently in 15th place with 1 point from last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.

  • Premier League Match Week 1 Round-up

    Premier League Match Week 1 Round-up

    [Photo courtesy of AFC]

    Manchester City kicked off their title defence in style with striker Harling Haaland picking up where he left off last season. The Norwegian did not take long to break the deadlock, scoring in the 4th minute after being set up by Rodri.

    The Norwegian added a second goal in the 36th minute to put the citizens 2 goals to the good after being set up by Julian Alvarez. Rodri added to his assist by putting the game to bed by netting City’s third in the 75th minute.

    Last season’s runner-up Arsenal kicked off their season with a win against Nottingham Forest. The Gunners took the lead through Eddie Nketiah after Gabriel Martinelli brilliantly beat two defenders to set him up. Bukayo Saka put the Gunners two goals ahead with a beautifully curved left foot shot.

    Nottingham forest however made the game a nervy ending pulling one back through a well orcahstrated counter by Anthony Elanga and Taiwo Awoniyi. The Gunners saw the fame out as 2-1 victors.

    At St James’ Park, Newcastle run riot against Aston Villa, thrashing them 5-1. Tonali opened the scoring for his team in just the 6th minute, setting the tone for an action-packed game. Villa replied well with Diaby in the 11th minute but that would be their only consolation. Isak quickly responded in the 16th minute with a precise strike, leveling the score.

    Isak found the net again in the 58th minute, displaying his clinical finishing. Callum Wilson’s contribution couldn’t be ignored as he netted a goal in the 77th minute, keeping the match intense. Barnes sealed the victory for his side with a last-minute goal in stoppage time.

    Brighton thrashed Luton 4-1 with goals from March in the 36th minute before Joao Pedro converted a spot kick in the 71st minute.

    Luton pulled one back Carlton Morris’ penalty kick but their efforts were undone by Simon Adingra and Evan Ferguson in quick succession who netted Brighton’s third and fourth in the 85th and 95th minutes respectively.

    Brentford held Spurs to a 2-2 draw fighting back from a goal down as Romero gave Tottenham the lead in the 11th minute. Bryan Mbeumo put Brentford on leveled terms after converting a spot kick in the 27th minute before Yoane Wissa put them ahead in the 36th minute. Spurs got on leveled terms again when Emerson Royal brilliantly found the back of the net in first half stoppage time.

    In London Chelsea took on Liverpool in what ended in a 1-1 draw. The Reds started well with Luis Diaz converting a brilliant cross from Mohamed Salah in the 18th minute. The Blues got themselves on level terms in the 36th minute through Alex Disasi after being set up by Ben Chilwell.

    Manchester United are set to take on Wolves at old Trafford in the final game of Match week 1

     

     

     

     

  • Olmo Leads Leipzig to Historic Cup Victory

    Olmo Leads Leipzig to Historic Cup Victory

    [Photo courtesy of RB Leipzig]

    RB Leipzig stunned Bayern Munich with a 3-0 victory in the final of the German DFL Cup on Sunday. The star of the show was Dani Olmo, who scored a hat-trick and put on a masterclass of attacking midfield play. The Spaniard showed why he is one of the most sought-after players in Europe, as he tormented the Bayern defense with his movement, vision, and finishing.

    Olmo opened the scoring in the 12th minute, when he latched onto a through ball from Benjamin Henrichs and slotted it past Ulerich. In the 34th minute, he doubled his total after receiving a feed from Timo Werner and making an incredible spin to get past Matthijs de Ligt and then poke the ball through the keeper’s legs. When Noussair Mazraoui was penalised for handball in the Bayern penalty area in the 67th minute, he successfully converted the penalty to complete his hat-trick.

    On the other side, Bayern Munich’s new signing Harry Kane had a debut to forget, coming on as a substitute in the 63rd minute with his team already trailing by two goals. The England captain, who signed for Bayern from Tottenham for a Bundesliga record €100 million ($110 million), had little impact on the game.

    Kane’s appearance was met with rousing applause from Bayern fans, who had been waiting in queue for his jersey since it became available that morning. However, he fell short of expectations and was overshadowed by Olmo’s brilliance. Bayern’s coach Thomas Tuchel apologized to Kane for his team’s poor performance and lack of service to their new star striker.

    It was not a good day for us. We were not sharp enough, not aggressive enough, not precise enough. We did not create enough chances for Harry. I am sorry for him because he deserved a better debut.

    As Leipzig won the DFL Cup for the first time in history, Kane will have to wait for his first trophy with Bayern. Olmo, meanwhile, solidified his position as one of Europe’s top performers and will look to carry that momentum into the Bundesliga and Champions League.