By Tabby Nashipae
Acting Sports Director Jackson Indakwa has promised better tidings for the Talanta Hela U19 football teams after their impressive performances in Spain.
The teams landed in the country on Thursday at around 1:00 am and were received at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in a triumphant homecoming ceremony.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Indakwa noted that they were keen to expose the youngsters to high-intensity matches in preparation for the upcoming continental and global challenges.
“I want to welcome the teams’ home on behalf of our CS Ababu Namwamba. We watched their games and were happy our boys could fight on that big stage. We hope to give them more exposure opportunities. This was just the beginning. I want to urge the boys to train hard as we expect the best from them,” Indakwa said.
The boys were crowned the winners of the 15th edition of the Costa Daurada Cup while the girls came in second.
Reflecting on their experience, team captain Elisha Nalianya expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete internationally, describing it as a dream come true.
“We enjoyed. The journey was good we have learned a lot. We have also gained experience. It feels good to be back home because we had promised our fellow Kenyans that we would bring something home and we kept the promise,” he said.
Lessons from Spain tour
His sentiments were echoed by girls’ captain Vidah Okeyo, who highlighted the invaluable lessons gained from the tournament, albeit lamenting the unfamiliarity of Spanish cuisine.
“We expected to take the first position but we did not manage. It was a good experience; we learned a lot and interacted with many people. It was cold and the food was strange. We missed Ugali,” Okeyo revealed.
Coach Jackline Juma commended her team’s dedication and performance, emphasizing the fulfilment of their long-term aspirations.
“The journey was amazing. We left here with a goal and we have achieved it and I can say that it was a good performance. It was a new environment for them and it was a learning experience. At first, there was stage fright because it was Europe, but they eventually gained the courage and conquered. It was a great exposure. I am happy for their performance,” Juma said.
The teams also competed in two friendly matches each.
The boys played their opening match against CD Castellón, where they suffered a 5-1 defeat before bouncing back to win against Spanish side Eldense FC with a score of 4-2 in the final match.
On the other hand, the girls claimed victories in all their friendlies. They defeated Real Zaragoza 3-0 before dominating Calafell FC with a score of 5-0.
