Sofapaka, 2009 KPL champions were at their worst financial brink

Ambrose Rachier Gor Mahia Chairman Ambrose Rachier(left) chat with Sofapaka President Elly Kalekwa during Kenya Power Charity Cup finals at Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani on Saturday 02/02/13. They lost to Sofapaka on penalties after full time 1-1 draw.[PHOTO:BONIFACE OKENDO]

Sofapaka chairman and Kenyan Premier League Vice Chairman Elly Kalekwa has congratulated Gor Mahia for reaching the group stages of the tournament.

Kalekwa also praised the Confederations of African Football (CAF) for making it simple for teams to qualify. “We almost went bankrupt trying to make it to the group stages of the same tournament in 2006. We had to play four matches and spent Sh31 million but still did not qualify. After that our financial position was greatly compromised,” said Kalekwa.

Mathare United also faced the prospects of bankruptcy playing at continental level in 2000 and 2009.