School Games: Butere Girls to renew rivalry with Madira Girls in Western Region finals

Butere Girls football team players during the 2023 Western Regional Secondary Schools Ball Games finals at Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

Butere Girls High School will renew their fierce football rivalry with Madira Girls when the Western Region Secondary School Term Two games kick off next week from July 9 to 12 at St. Peter's Mumias Boys High School in Mumias, Kakamega County.

The national champions, Butere Girls, are fresh from defending their Kakamega County title after edging out Archbishop Njenga Girls 2-1 in a thrilling final.

With their eyes now firmly set on reclaiming the regional crown, Butere will face familiar foes Madira Girls in Group B - a clash that promises fireworks.

The pool also features Chakol Girls from Busia and Bungoma County's Mbakalo Girls. Butere and Madira are expected to be the teams to beat in the group, with their past meetings often producing exciting football.

Butere Girls coach Howard Shikanga believes his team is well-prepared to take on the regional challenge.

"We know what is at stake, and we are not taking anything for granted. The players have been working hard and are focused on the bigger goal of returning to the nationals. We respect our opponents, especially Madira, but we are ready," said Shikanga.

Madira Girls, who defeated Ibubi Girls 1-0 to be crowned champions in Vihiga County, will be eager to prove a point against the champions and secure a semifinal spot. Their group match against Butere could decide who tops the pool.

In Group A, Bishop Njenga will lead the charge alongside Vihiga's Ibubi Girls, Bungoma's Brenda Girls, and Kingandole Secondary School from Busia. Bishop Njenga, despite their narrow loss to Butere in the county final, remain strong contenders for a place in the last four.

With the regional tournament acting as the final gateway to the national finals, competition is expected to be intense.

All eight teams will be fighting not just for the regional title but also for the pride of representing Western at the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Nationals.

Western Region Soccer Girls Draw

Date: 9th to 12th July 2025.

Host: St. Peters Mumias Boys

Group A

Bishop Njenga (Kakamega)

Ibubi Girls (Vihiga)

Brenda Girls (Bungoma)

Kingandole Sec (Busia)

Group B

Butere Girls (Kakamega)

Madira Girls (Vihiga)

Chakol Girls (Busia)

Mbakalo Girls (Bungoma)