SCHOOLS: Madira maintains unbeaten run, Wiyeta also win in girls' football

Butere Girls' Faith Lorna and Ilavonga Lorine of Wiyeta Girls tussle for the ball during national secondary school ball games at Kakamega High School on August 12. [Benjamin Sakwa,Standard]

Is it safe to say that the nation's hopes in football girls at the ongoing Federation of East Africa Secondary School Sports Association (FEASSSA) games in Rwanda rest upon the shoulders of Madira Girls High School?

Known for their relentless pursuit of victory and their unwavering commitment to winning, Madira Girls are unbeaten after their two opening Group A matches.

Drawn alongside national champions Butere Girls, Kawempe Muslim and St Noa Girls from Uganda, Rwanda's GS Gatizo and Ziba Secondary from Tanzania, Madira are now two wins away from sealing their spot in the semi-finals.

As the FEASSSA games kicked off in Rwanda, Madira Girls faced their first challenge against hosts GS Gatizo.

The game was fierce and intense, with both teams displaying remarkable agility and strategic prowess. In the end, the Western region side emerged triumphant, securing a resounding 3-1 victory. The jubilant cheers of the Kenyan fans reverberated across the stadium, a testament to the team's incredible effort.

But Madira Girls knew that their journey had only just started. Their next match was against the formidable Butere Girls, a team with a reputation for their skill and determination.

The national champions could not however find the power to outshine Madira who fought hard to draw 1-1.

"We've shown our mettle in these opening games, securing a convincing win and battling to a draw. The journey ahead is challenging, but we're not just here to play - we're here to compete, excel, and make our mark," said Nick Muleri, Madira Girls coach

"With three matches left in Group A, we're focused on our goal:securing a spot in the semi-finals. Every pass, every tackle, every moment on that field is an opportunity for us to showcase our skills and determination.

"We respect our opponents, but we also believe in our abilities. We'll train harder, strategise smarter, and play with the heart of champions. Our aim is clear - to qualify, to shine, and to make our school and our country proud."

It won't be fair however to forget former national champions Wiyeta Girls who began their matches yesterday by seeing off APAER School from Rwanda 2-0.

Wiyeta, who are in Group B, will face off against Sacred Heart Gulu from 1 pm local time knowing another victory will move them closer to the last four.

Butere Girls, who lost to Kawempe Girls 3-1 on Sunday before drawing 1-1 with Madira, will play GS Gatizo from Rwanda looking for their first win.