Category: International Sports

By: Leeroy Wuone

leeroywuone02@gmail.com

Lando Norris led an impressive pole to podium win at the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit which started at 3pm Australian time at the Albert Park circuit In Australia.

Lando’s win for McLaren was impressive showcasing his ability of capitalizing other drivers’ misfortunes to his gain. Seasoned drivers like Carlos Sainz who competes for Williams and Fernando Alonso who competes for Aston Martin showed the unpredictability of the track at times, as both are experienced Formula one drivers.

Heavy rainy weather conditions before the start of the race led to soaking of the track which caused low grip levels as the track was slippery and wet due to its smooth asphalt and painted lines.

Tight corners and walls also caused nightmares to several drivers; an example is Alonso’s loss of control when his torque induced spinning which resulted in contact with walls, also a result of the slippery track causing him to exit the race.

Torque is the rotational force produced by the cars power unit engine that drives the wheels through transmission, torque is very crucial for quick exits from slow corners (like hairpins in Melbourne’s turn 9 and Monaco)

A hairpin on the other hand is a very sharp 180-degree turn in a race truck which requires a driver to apply significant change in direction, heavy breaking and also determines how drivers will either loose or gain significant lap time.

Temperature sensitivity of Melbourne kept the track temperatures low making it harder for the drivers to get their tyres working in the right conditions.

After the post Alonso crash many of the drivers opted for slicks only for the rains to pour again affecting drivers such as Liam Lawson (Red bull racing).

In a heartbreaking yet heartwarming moment Anthony Hamilton, Lewis Hamilton’s dad was seen consoling Isack Hadjar on his way to the paddock after crashing out in the formation lap leading to his retirement. When a driver retires it means they are forced to leave the race due to a mechanical issue or another problem with their car.

Formula one race cars have different tire sets for different scenarios;

Slick tires are made of soft, sticky rubber components which ensure maximum grip with the asphalt on track. Lack of tread on slicks ensures optimal traction on a dry surface, these kind of tires are also best for dry tracks only, which was an opposing factor at the Albert circuit making drivers lose control due to less grip with the asphalt surface.

Oscar Piastri (McLaren) lost his grip when sudden downpour hit after drivers were forced to switch to slick tires. He span off at the corner sliding into the grass and losing significant lap time as he had to recover. This costed a McLaren potential one two podium finish as Piastri was overtaken by Max Verstappen (Red Bull)

Beginner Isack Hadjar (Racing bulls) lost his grip at the opening lap even before the race started. As he exited turn one on intermediate tires, he span into the barriers triggering an aborted start.

Intermediate tires have a green band designed for wet tracks but not heavily flooded. In addition they are quicker than full wet tires on a damp track or when a track is drying out after rain offering a balance between slick and full wet tires.

Moreover, they have small cuts with shallow grooves and a rubber compound being harder than the slicks but softer than full wets balancing grip by allowing water to sip away. In today’s Australian Grand Prix drivers used intermediate tires due to wet weather conditions before the start of the race.

Full wet tires on the other hand have deeper grooves and offer more water dispersion and they are the best in heavy consistent rain.

Australian beginner Jack Doohan (Alpine) was forced to exit as he lost grip in the wet conditions colliding with the boarder wall on the first lap prompting a safety car.

Kimi Antonelli, an eighteen year old Italian driver who drives for (Mercedes) overtook Nico Hulkenberg who drives for (Sauber) at turn 11.The Mercedes switch from slicks to intermediates during the end stages of the race also helped Kimi capitalize on other drivers’ misfortunes. Starting from P17 to P4 crossing the line and passing several experienced drivers where rain caused spins and crashes; proved his adaptability despite his limited wet weather experience.

The strategic impact of the race was crucial as seen in the formation lap, Hadjar’s crash showed the impact of over warming of intermediate tires. In mid race teams opted for slicks for increased speeds but the rains punished drivers who didn’t switch strategically to intermediates as seen by Red Bull’s Lawson which would have been slower but safer for him.

Poor communication on the other hand costed the Ferrari pair as Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton’s request for a stop at the Pitts for a change to intermediate tires proved futile with the team opting for the pair to stay on track.

Ill-timed pit stop decisions from team Ferrari kept Hamilton and Leclerc on slick tires on an additional lap as drivers such as Lando Norris of McLaren pitted immediately for intermediate tires in readiness for the rainy weather conditions. As a result Hamilton lost 15 seconds to Norris on that lap alone, while Leclerc dropped 12 seconds which both drivers could not recover.

The Ferrari teams’ blander on tire timing and a lack of decisive action from the pit wall upon a request for intermediaries from slicks over the radio, forced both drivers to swing into recovery mode instead of attacking for points.

The Chinese Grand Prix scheduled for March 23rd at the Shanghai International circuit will be another chance for the drivers to competitively seek for an improvement from the race today; this will be the second round of the 2025 season.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Written by Nafisa Najmi

Round 20 of the ongoing Formula One 2024 season was held in Mexico City at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, from the 25th-27th of October. The weekend went perfectly for Sainz as he placed on the top 3 for all the 3 free practice’s held on Friday and Saturday. The Spaniard also went ahead to qualify on pole, sixth one off his career. Max Verstappen, the current leader of the world driver’s championship, and his strongest rival for the championship, Lando Norris, qualified 2nd and 3rd, which had a lot of fans nervous, thrilled and excited for the iconic and unique turn one of this circuit.

Well turn one, did end up waking all the fans up, as Max Verstappen ended up leading the race on the first lap, but everyone’s attention was not on the front row but at the collision between Yuki Tsunoda and Alex Albon. All the drivers regrouped and were led by the safety car until the end of the 6th lap, Max Verstappen on P1, the man who started on pole behind him with Norris maintaining his position, while Alex and Yuki saw a disappointing end to what could have been a fruitful weekend for both cars, as they were both aiming to end their races in the points.

Yet the first few laps were just the start of the impeding chaos waiting for the fans, the safety car ended and the drivers got ready to attack and defend their positions. Carlos Sainz managed to get a brilliant overtake on Verstappen which meant he was back at the lead, with three plausible world championship title contenders, Verstappen, Norris and Charles Leclerc, right on his tail. Nevertheless, the most debated part of this weekend happened right after Norris and Verstappen went wheel to wheel for second place, on turn 4 Verstappen forced Norris off the track, gaining a 10 second penalty, which was just the first one. On turn 8 Verstappen was once again penalized for leaving the track and gaining an advantage.

While these two drivers went head to head, Charles Leclerc was able to overtake both of them and take 2nd place, meaning there was a strong chance that, for the second week in a row Ferrari would have both their drivers on the two top steps of the podium. That was the case for most of the race until Norris managed to close the gap between him and Leclerc. With 8 laps to go Leclerc unfortunately lost his grip on turn 17, barely saving himself from smashing into the barrier. That incident made it easier for Norris to over take him. Leclerc ended up finishing 3rd and an extra reward for fastest lap.

The chaos the weekend wasn’t just at the front row, the two Mercedes, George Russel and Lewis Hamilton, had a clean but intense battle for 4th place which Lewis Hamilton managed to secure on lap 51. The two drivers from Haas Formula 1 team also managed to bag a double points finish, as Kevin Magnussen got to 7th and Niko Hulkenberg secured 9th. Oscar Piastri who had an unfortunate qualifying managed to get from P17 to P8, helping add crucial points for McLaren’s fight for the constructors. The Alpine of Pierre Gasly also managed to get to the point after holding up a fight, reaching 10th. Max Verstappen even after a 20 second pitstop and exiting on 15th, managed to get to 6th when the race ended.

In light of the Mexican Grand Prix we do have to discuss home hero, Sergio Perez, who had a home race to forget, fans ready to support the Mexican were disappointed by the unfortunate race he had this week. Starting off by getting a 10 second penalty for a false start, not managing to get into the points, at the end he pitted to be attempt to score the fastest lap point, yet was unsuccessful as Charles Leclerc took the point at the last lap. Another unfortunate end was for Fernando Alonso who was celebrating his 400th race start, but due to a mechanical issue had to retire the car.

What a spectacle the Mexican Grand Prix was, with 3 DNF’s, intense battles and a huge chunk of points for many teams. The constructor’s championship battle got a whole lost juicier now that Ferrari (537 points) overtook Redbull (512 points) to 2nd place, McLaren leads the Constructors with 566 points. The driver’s championship also seems heated with Norris managing to take 10 points off Verstappen. With 4 race weekends to go, 2 of those include sprint race weekend, this Formula One season is a season to tune into, as the teams and drivers all fight for the top step.

Onwards to Brazil!

 

 

By Joe Aura, Aurajoe6@gmail.com

After 13 illustrious seasons with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson’s journey has marked an end to one of the most iconic partnerships in NBA history—the Splash Brothers. Alongside Stephen Curry, Thompson redefined modern basketball, etching their names into the sport’s annals as two of the greatest three-point shooters ever.

The Rise of the Splash Brothers

Klay Thompson, known for his smooth shooting stroke, precision, and calm demeanor, joined the Warriors in 2011, forming a deadly backcourt duo with Curry. They earned the nickname “Splash Brothers” due to their remarkable ability to rain three-pointers from anywhere on the court. Over 13 seasons, the duo led the Warriors to four NBA Championships (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022), becoming a dominant force that revolutionized the league with their style of play.

Their journey wasn’t just about wins and records; it was about thrilling fans worldwide, turning each game into a shooting spectacle. When Thompson got hot, you could almost hear the collective gasp of anticipation from fans, knowing that any shot he took would likely find the net. Whether it was Curry’s flashy handles or Thompson’s laser-focused jumpers, they made basketball fun, fast, and fierce.

Captain Klay: More Than Just a Shooter

Beyond his prowess on the court, Thompson’s love for boating earned him the moniker “Captain Klay.” Frequently spotted cruising the Bay, he brought that same easy-going spirit to his game, never letting the pressure rattle him. His newfound nickname “Sea Captain” is a nod to his love of the water and the calm confidence he exudes—whether navigating choppy waves or sinking threes.

Klay’s legacy isn’t just about points; it’s about resilience. From dropping a record 37 points in a single quarter to battling back from two major injuries, his journey is a testament to his perseverance. Even after suffering a torn ACL and Achilles, Thompson returned stronger, adding another title to his collection in 2022.

The End of an Era

In 2024, as Thompson’s chapter with the Warriors comes to a close, the NBA bids farewell to one of the most formidable duos. The Splash Brothers weren’t just teammates; they were innovators who pushed the boundaries of what was possible, setting new standards for excellence and teamwork.

For over a decade, the Golden State Warriors fans cheered, celebrated, and sometimes held their breath, knowing that when Curry and Thompson took the floor, magic was bound to happen. Their chemistry was electric, their shooting, pure poetry in motion, and their legacy, untouchable.

Sailing Toward New Horizons

As Thompson embarks on new adventures, fans can rest assured that his legacy remains intact. Captain Klay’s story isn’t just about championships and records; it’s about inspiring a new generation to play the game with heart, resilience, and passion.

The Splash Brothers may no longer be suiting up together, but their impact on the sport is everlasting. And while one chapter closes, another begins for Captain Klay—this time, it might just be on the open seas.

So, to the player who gave us endless three-point thrills, clutch moments, and unforgettable comebacks, we say thank you. Captain Klay, may your journey be as smooth and swift as your shot, and may the waters you sail be as clear as your vision on the court.

 

By Joe Aura, Aurajoe6@gmail.com

“Liverpool and Manchester City play fantastic football, but you will always see an era come to an end — I am looking forward to a battle with them”

The writing was on the wall. Erik ten Hag’s journey at Manchester United had a few bright spots, but the cracks began to show early. After a dismal start to the season and a string of embarrassing losses, fans and pundits alike began to question how he managed to hold onto his position for as long as he did. Despite calls for his head, he clung on, perhaps buoyed by his past successes or the board’s belief in his ability to turn things around. In the end, it wasn’t enough.

The Inevitable

The reasons for Erik ten Hag’s sacking are as clear as day. Under his leadership, Manchester United often looked more like a disoriented group than a cohesive team. Each match seemed to introduce new levels of confusion, with tactical missteps, baffling substitutions, and a struggle to establish a consistent playing style. The team was a far cry from the glory days of Sir Alex Ferguson—a shadow of its former self.

Arguably, Ten Hag’s biggest criticism was his inability to instill a clear philosophy or style of play at Old Trafford. Under the Dutchman, United was a “moments” team, relying on individual brilliance rather than cohesive play. This was in stark contrast to the cohesive, attractive style he built at Ajax. Managers like Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham, Unai Emery at Aston Villa, and Arne Slot at Liverpool established clear identities for their teams despite less time in charge. Meanwhile, Ten Hag appeared to stumble through matches, relying on big individual moments to score goals rather than a clear tactical pattern. Tactically, he was found out many times. Just last week, he surprised fans by deploying Mazraoui—a fullback—as a No. 10 in a Europa League game, resulting in a 1-1 draw against 10-men Fenerbahce.

Despite significant investment in new players, many of Ten Hag’s signings failed to adapt to his vision, leading to a chaotic season. How he managed to last as long as he did is a question even the most loyal United fans are still trying to answer. The squad often looked disjointed, lacking the fighting spirit that once defined Manchester United.

While Ten Hag brought in high-profile players like Casemiro, Varane, and Sancho, many simply didn’t live up to the hype. The inconsistencies on the pitch resulted in a mediocre league standing and early exits from key competitions—an outcome that was unacceptable for a club of United’s stature.

Fans, still reminiscing over Peter Drury’s poetic narration of Cristiano Ronaldo’s reunion with Manchester United—”Madeira, Manchester, Madrid, Turin, and Manchester again. Restored to this great gallery of the game, a walking work of art, vintage, beyond valuation, beyond forgery or imitation”—were left puzzled. How could a team boasting stars like Ronaldo, Sancho, Pogba, Casemiro, Varane, and De Gea perform so poorly?

Ten Hag oversaw the spending of around £615 million ($800 million) on players since his arrival at Old Trafford in the summer of 2022. In the Premier League, only Chelsea has spent more in that time. Yet, few of the signings were a success. Many were either Dutch players familiar to Ten Hag or had previously played in the Netherlands. Just this summer, United spent around $240 million on five new signings, including two Netherlands internationals, Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt, and another, Noussair Mazraoui, who played under Ten Hag at Ajax. Undoubtedly the biggest flop has been Antony, who followed Ten Hag from Ajax for $95 million but barely made an impact.

Despite Ten Hag’s credentials and early promise, his project quickly unraveled, becoming the subject of ridicule among rival fans. How did he survive this long? That’s a mystery only those in the boardroom can explain.

Dressing Room Conflicts

Another factor that led to Erik ten Hag’s downfall was the turmoil in the dressing room. The atmosphere behind the scenes was anything but harmonious, with frequent reports of conflict and clashes among players. High-profile outbursts, like Cristiano Ronaldo’s explosive interview criticizing the club and Ten Hag, only added fuel to the fire. The fallout was swift and public, leading to Ronaldo’s abrupt departure—a move that divided fans worldwide.

It didn’t stop there. Jadon Sancho, another star signing, took to social media to air his grievances after being dropped from the squad, hinting at deeper issues between players and management. These public spats painted a picture of a fractured team, with egos clashing and a lack of unity on and off the pitch. For a club as storied as Manchester United, this level of internal conflict was a clear sign that things had spiraled out of control.

Despite Ten Hag’s efforts, he could not quell the unrest or create a cohesive environment, and the dressing room disharmony translated directly to inconsistent performances on the field.

Words That Came Back to Haunt Him

Ten Hag’s confident remarks about ending Liverpool and Manchester City’s dominance did not age well. While he managed to beat Liverpool once, United ended up conceding a humiliating number of goals in other encounters. Though he did halt Manchester City’s domestic reign for a brief moment with an FA Cup win, such moments of joy were rare. A win is a win, but the fans could hardly savor the success before another disappointing result dampened their spirits.

Some die-hard supporters celebrated Ten Hag’s sacking, chanting, “The Devils are back!” But even the most optimistic knew the job was far from done. After all, many of the current squad members were brought in by Ten Hag, meaning the next manager will inherit players molded in the Dutchman’s vision. Can someone else get the best out of them, or is this another era of mediocrity?

Achievements Amid Chaos

Amid the chaos, there were achievements that shouldn’t be overshadowed. Ten Hag did deliver two trophies in his two seasons—an FA Cup and a League Cup—bringing some joy back to Old Trafford after years of drought. Some even argue that his two-year stint outshone Mikel Arteta’s early seasons at Arsenal. But any sense of superiority faded as the Red Devils plummeted down the table, currently sitting in a lowly 13th place.

Ten Hag’s bold claim about ending the dominance of clubs like Liverpool and Manchester City didn’t materialize. Though he managed to beat them occasionally, the Red Devils suffered numerous humiliating defeats. For every highlight, there seemed to be two lowlights.

A Nod to His Ajax Legacy

There will be sympathy for Ten Hag, who might have been destined to fail because he was a good coach in the wrong place at the wrong time. His entire tenure was marked by upheaval and behind-the-scenes change, whether it was the ownership saga or the recent adjustment to new leadership under Jim Ratcliffe. However, Ten Hag had plenty of money to spend, and he should have done better given the quality of players at his disposal.

Ten Hag arrived at Manchester United off the back of a successful stint at Ajax, where he masterminded stunning victories over European giants like Real Madrid and Juventus. His Ajax side played a brand of football that was beautiful, disciplined, and lethal, taking them to the Champions League semifinals. He collected multiple league titles in Amsterdam, cementing his reputation as a top-class coach. But the job at United was always going to be a different beast, so tough that even the legendary Zinedine Zidane was rumored to have turned it down.

The Future for the Hornless Devils

Ten Hag will leave United with a couple of trophies but far too many big defeats and troubling statistics. United is currently enduring its worst-ever start to a Premier League season—14th place with 11 points after nine games—following its worst finish of eighth in the Premier League era. The 7-0 loss at Liverpool last season was the heaviest defeat at its fiercest rival, its worst competitive defeat in over 90 years, and surely the low point of Ten Hag’s tenure.

With Ten Hag out, the question is: where does Manchester United go from here? The club’s problems run deep, and simply swapping managers won’t solve them overnight. But for fans, there’s a flicker of hope—a chance that the next appointment could be the one that finally turns things around.

While Erik ten Hag’s tenure has ended in disappointment, Manchester United’s journey isn’t over. The next steps are crucial. The board must make a calculated decision, bringing in someone who can instill a winning mentality and give the fans something to believe in. Otherwise, the Devils might find themselves in a familiar position next season, facing the same issues and enduring the same frustrations.

To Manchester United fans: keep the faith. The struggles may seem endless, but every great team has its revival. If there’s one thing to learn from Erik ten Hag’s time at Old Trafford, it’s that even in the darkest moments, there’s always a glimmer of hope. The road back to glory is long, but it’s not impossible.

 

 

By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

YAOUNDE, October 11, 2024 – It was a night to forget for Kenya as they fell 4-1 to a dominant Cameroon side at the Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo. The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier saw the Indomitable Lions assert their superiority, leaving Kenya’s Harambee Stars in a precarious position as the race for Morocco 2025 heats up.

Who: Cameroon vs. Kenya What: AFCON Qualifier When: October 11, 2024 Where: Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo, Yaounde, Cameroon Why: Qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco How: Dominant display by Cameroon, led by goals from Bassogog, Mbeumo, and Aboubakar

Cameroon’s Commanding Performance

Cameroon came out of the blocks with intent, pushing Kenya onto the back foot early on. Christian Bassogog opened the scoring with a well-placed shot in the 12th minute, setting the tone for what would be a dominant performance by the five-time African champions. Bryan Mbeumo doubled the lead before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by the Kenyans.

Vincent Aboubakar added a third goal in the 56th minute, all but sealing Kenya’s fate. A late goal from Bassogog completed his brace, rubbing salt into the wounds of Engin Firat’s men. Kenya managed to pull one back through captain Michael Olunga, whose powerful header gave the Harambee Stars a brief moment of hope.

Despite the defeat, Kenya’s captain Olunga remained optimistic, calling for unity among fans. “We are disappointed, but we must keep fighting. We still have games left, and we need to learn from our mistakes to bounce back,” said Olunga after the match.

What This Means for Group J Standings

The result sees Cameroon solidify their place at the top of Group J, enhancing their chances of securing a spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament. For Kenya, the loss leaves them third in the group, making their next match against Cameroon on October 14 in Douala a must-win if they hope to keep their qualification dreams alive. With only three games remaining, the Harambee Stars must deliver to stay in contention.

Other Results from AFCON Qualifiers

The Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on October 11 produced several notable results across different groups:

• Group A: Madagascar 1-1 Gambia

• Group B: Gabon 0-0 Lesotho

• Group C: Egypt 2-0 Mauritania

• Group D: Benin 3-0 Rwanda; Nigeria 1-0 Libya

• Group E: Equatorial Guinea 1-0 Liberia

• Group F: Angola 2-0 Niger

• Group G: Zambia 0-0 Chad; Ivory Coast 4-1 Sierra Leone

• Group I: Mozambique 1-1 Eswatini; Mali 1-0 Guinea-Bissau

• Group K: Uganda 1-0 South Sudan; South Africa 5-0 Congo

• Group L: Senegal 4-0 Malawi

From Thursday, October 10:

• Group C: Cape Verde 0-1 Botswana

• Group E: Algeria 5-1 Togo

• Group F: Ghana 0-0 Sudan

• Group H: Congo DR 1-0 Tanzania

• Group J: Namibia 0-1 Zimbabwe

• Group L: Burkina Faso 4-1 Burundi

Samuel Eto’o’s Gesture Boosts Cameroonian Spirit

In an effort to galvanize local support, Fecafoot President Samuel Eto’o Fils offered 500 tickets to students of a secondary school in Yaounde. The initiative added to the vibrant atmosphere in the stadium, contributing to a memorable evening for Cameroonian fans. Meanwhile, Kenya’s struggles with home-ground availability have seen them play more away matches, impacting their preparation and form.

As the qualifiers progress, all eyes will be on the return leg in Douala. Can Kenya turn things around, or will Cameroon continue their march to Morocco 2025? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the road to AFCON glory is heating up.

 

 

By Onyangor248@gmail.com

Thursday, October 3rd

As Kenya prepares for a pivotal encounter against Cameroon, Harambee stars head coach Firat has unveiled an exciting 28-man squad that combines local talent with overseas professionals. This strategic selection marks a significant step in the team’s quest to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The announcement comes as the team faces heightened expectations following the absence of key players in recent matches. Notably, Captain Michael Olunga is making a highly anticipated return after missing last month’s World Cup Qualifiers match against Zimbabwe and Namibia. His leadership and goal-scoring prowess will be essential as Kenya looks to secure a crucial victory in the first leg on October 11th.

Firats squad reflects his vision of blending youthful energy with seasoned experience. The inclusion of emerging local talents alongside established professionals illustrates a commitment to fostering a competitive and cohesive unit. With players from various leagues coming together, Harambee Stars aim to build on their past performances and advance to the continental tournament.

The team will enter a residential camp starting October 4th, allowing the players to focus on their preparations for the upcoming fixture. This concentrated training period is crucial, as the coaching staff will work to instill tactical discipline and unity among the players, ensuring they are ready to face a formidable opponent like Cameroon.

The stakes are high for harambee Stars, as their performance in these qualifiers will not only determine their path to AFCON but also shape the future of Kenya football on the continental stage. The combination of Olungas’ return and the strategic squad selection embody Firats ambition to build a resilient team capable of competing at the highest level.

As the countdown to the match begins, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this carefully curetted squad can deliver the results needed to reignite Kenya’s football aspirations. The future looks promising, but it will ultimately be the players on the pitch who determine the game.

Kenya provisional squad for AFCON 2025 Qualifiers:

Goalkeepers: Ian Otieno (Richards Bay), Patrick Matasi (Kenya Police), Byrne Omondi (Bandari)

Defenders: Alphonce Omija (Gor Mahia), Daniel Anyembe ( Viborg), Amos Nondi (Ararat), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Johnstone Omurwa ( Abha ), Collins Sichenje (Vijvodina), Joseph Okumu (Remis). Geoffrey Ochieng (Gor Mahia), Eric Ouma (Rakow)

Midfielders: David Odoyo(Tusker), Chrispine Erambo (Tusker), Richard Odada( Dundee United), John Ochieng ( Zanaco), Timothy Ouma (Elfsborg), Anthony Akumu (Kheybar), Duke Abuya (Yanga), Ronney Onyango (Gor Mahia), Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars)

Forwards: John Avire ( El Sekka El Hadid), Michael Olunga (Al-Duhail), Jonah Ayunga(St. Mirren), Adam Wilson (New Saints), Sydney Lokale( AFC Leopards), Alfred Scriven (Bryne FK)

By Onyangor248@gmail.com

 

 

 

Monday, September 23, 2024

 

The premier League served up thrilling action this weekend, highlighted by Arsenal’s intense clash against Manchester City, which ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium. In a match defined by late drama, John Stones scored a crucial equalizer in the 90^th minute, salvaging a point for the hosts. Arsenal faced a daunting challenge after Leonardo Trossard recieved a second yellow card for a foul on Bernardo Silva, reducing the Gunners to ten men. Despite the setback, Erling Haaland continued his remarkable form, scoring for the fourth consecutive match this season.

In another thrilling encounter, Brighton and Nottingham Forest played out a high-scoring draw, showcasing both teams’ attacking prowess. Each side displayed moments of brilliance, but neither could find the winner, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Meanwhile, Liverpool put on a dominant performance against Bournemouth, securing a resounding 3-0 victory at Anfield. Luis Diaz shone brightly, netting two goals, while Darwin Nunez celebrated his first start of the season with a goal of his own, solidifying Arne Slot’s sides posting among the league’s frontrunners.

Tottenham also enjoyed success, defeating Brentford 3-1. Their strong performance keeps them in the mix as the competition heats up. After this weekend’s action, Manchester City sit atop the Premier League table with 14 points. Liverpool and Aston Villa follow closely behind, both tied with 13 points, while Arsenal hold fourth with 11 points. As the season progresses, the race for the title is shaping up to be an exhilarating contest, with each match offering a fresh twist in the table.

Story by Onyangor248@gmail.com

Thursday, September 05, 2024

 

(Picture by USA TODAY Sports)

 

By Richard Onyango

 

In a tragic turn of events, Rebecca Cheptegei, a prominent Ugandan distance runner, has passed away from injuries sustained in a horrifying attack by her Kenyan partner. Cheptegei, 33, succumbed to severe burns at a Kenyan hospital where she had been receiving treatment after her boyfriend set her ablaze on Sunday.

Cheptegei who represented Uganda with distinction in the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she finished 44^th in the marathon, was reportedly doused in petrol and set on fire by Dickson Ndiema, her Kenyan lover. The attack occurred during a domestic disagreement, which escalated to a violent and tragic end. According to Trans Nzoia County Police Commander, Jeremiah Ole Kosiom, Ndiema, who also sustained severe burns in the incident, had purchased the petrol with the intent of harming Cheptegei.

The athlete’s body suffered burns covering 80% of her skin, leaving her in critical condition. Plans were underway to airlift her to Nairobi for specialized treatment when she passed away early this morning. Her death has shocked and saddened the athletic community and the general public alike.

 

The Uganda Athletic Federation has expressed its profound grief through a statement on the social media platform X. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul Rest in Peace.”

Cheptegeis death underscores a grave issue of domestic violence, with the incident highlighting the dangers faced by women in abusive relationships. The Ugandan and Kenyan communities are mourning the loss of a dedicated athlete whose career was marked by resilience and hard work.

As investigations continue, there is a call for justice and support for victims of domestic violence, ensuring that such tragedies are not repeated. Cheptegeis legacy will remain in the hearts of those who admired her spirit and commitment to her sport.

 

Saturday, August 31, 2024

 

By Richard Onyango

Contact info Onyangor248@gmail.com

 

In a thrilling display of endurance and skill, Faith Kipyegon reclaimed her throne in the women’s 1500 meters at the Rome Diamond League in Brussels, clocking an impressive 3:52:89. This victory marks her first competitive race since her historic achievement at the Paris Olympics, where she secured her third consecutive gold medal in the same event. Kipyegon’s performance in Rome was nothing short of spectacular, particularly in the final 120meters, where she showcased her remarkable strength and tactical prowess. With each stride, she pulled away from the chasing pack cementing her status as one of most formidable runners in the world.

Kipyegons return to the track has further solidified Kenya’s reputation as a powerhouse in middle-distance running, and her latest win reinforces the country’s dominance in the sport. Her ability to perform under pressure and deliver exceptional results continues to inspire fans and athletes alike.

However, it was a mixed day for Kenya’s athletics as Ferdinand Omanyala fell short in the men’s 100meter. In a race where every millisecond counts, Omanyala clocked 10:08, which was not enough to secure a podium finish. Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo stole the spotlight with a blistering time of 9:87, taking home the gold and leaving Omanyala and the Kenyan team with a valuable lesson in the highly competitive sprinting arena.

Despite the setback, Kenya’s pursuit of excellence on the global track and field stage remains undeterred. The performance of both Kipyegon and Omanyala underscores the country’s ongoing commitment to fostering athletic talent and competing at the highest levels. As Kenya continues to nurture its track and field prospects, the nation’s quest to solidify its position as a dominant force in athletics is as vibrant as ever.

The result from Rome reflects the highs and lows of competitive sports yet they also highlight the resilience and determination of Kenyan athletes. While Kipyegons victory reaffirms her elite status, Omanyala’s performance serves as a reminder of the fierce competition that lies ahead. As the track season progresses, all eyes will be on Kenya to see how it navigates these challenges and strive to build upon its storied athletic legacy.