Elijah Lidonde Super Cup lands sponsorship boost

Elijah Lidonde Super Cup organising committee members during the unveiling of 22Bet sponsorship in Kakamega on Wednesday. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

The Elijah Lidonde Foundation Super Cup has received a significant financial boost after 22Bet, a betting firm, contributed Sh5 million in sponsorship for this year's tournament.

The second edition of the annual off-season competition is scheduled for December 23-24 at Bukhungu Stadium and will feature three FKF Premier League clubs, including defending champions AFC Leopards, Kakamega Homeboyz, Nzoia Sugar, and National Super League side Mulembe United.

AFC Leopards emerged as the inaugural champions by defeating Nzoia Sugar 8-7 in post-match penalties at Bukhungu Stadium in July 2022.

The tournament is held in honor of the late Elijah Lidonde, who captained both Abaluhya (AFC Leopards) and Harambee Stars between 1950 and 1961 before passing away in September 1987.

The winners of the tournament, played in a knockout format, will receive Sh1 million in cash prizes along with a trophy and medal. The first runner-up will receive Sh500,000, while the third and fourth-placed teams will be awarded Sh250,000 and Sh200,000, respectively.

During the sponsorship unveiling ceremony in Kakamega on Wednesday, Elijah Lidonde Foundation patron Alexander Muteshi expressed excitement about the upcoming tournament during the festive period.

He mentioned innovative plans to enhance the tournament experience and emphasized the celebration of skill, sportsmanship, and community.

"As we eagerly approach the kickoff of the Elijah Lidonde Super Cup, we are excited to unveil new and innovative plans that will elevate the tournament experience.

"This year promises to be a celebration of skill, sportsmanship, and community, as we chart a course towards unparalleled excellence in the beautiful game," said Muteshi.

Joash Ajuoga, the Country General Manager for 22Bet, highlighted the company's pride in supporting grassroots football, considering the tournament as part of their social responsibility and community outreach programs.

Ajuoga emphasized their commitment to empowering local talent and making a lasting positive impact through football.

"At 22bet, we take pride in fostering the growth of grassroots football. The Elijah Lidonde Super Cup holds a special place in our hearts as it exemplifies our commitment to social responsibility and community outreach. We believe in empowering local talent and creating lasting positive impact through the beautiful game," said Ajuoga.

Winnah Shilavula, the Foundation's Secretary General, announced invitations extended to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, and the governors of Kakamega, Bungoma, and Vihiga counties to attend the tournament.

"We have send out invites to Prime Cabinet Secretary, Sports CS and the three governors from Western region to attend the event," said Shilavula.

Shilavula mentioned that with the FKF Premier League on recess, the focus would be on this tournament, providing a perfect Christmas treat for fans.