Mathare Combined FC were crowned champions of the 46th edition of the Koth Biro Tournament after defeating Kiambiu Warriors 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw in a thrilling final played at Nairobi’s historic Ziwani Grounds on Saturday.
The eagerly anticipated final brought together two of Nairobi’s most competitive grassroots football teams in a contest that lived up to its billing, attracting hundreds of fans to one of Kenya’s most celebrated community football events.
For over four decades, the Koth Biro Tournament has served as an important platform for identifying and nurturing football talent from Nairobi’s informal settlements and surrounding communities. Many players who have featured in Kenya’s professional leagues have used the competition as a stepping stone in their football careers.
The final itself was a closely fought affair, with both Mathare Combined and Kiambiu Warriors creating chances but failing to find the back of the net during regulation time. With neither side able to break the deadlock, the match was decided from the penalty spot, where Mathare Combined showed composure to secure a 4-3 victory and claim the coveted title.
This year’s tournament finals received a significant boost from online gaming firm Unda Bet, which injected Ksh 600,000 in prize money for the top three teams.
As champions, Mathare Combined pocketed Ksh 300,000, while runners-up Kiambiu Warriors received Ksh 200,000. Third-placed Mbuta FC, a team based in Nairobi’s Gikomba area, earned Ksh 100,000.
The sponsorship marked one of the biggest financial boosts for the tournament in recent years and highlighted the growing interest from the private sector in supporting grassroots football development across Kenya.
Speaking during the finals, officials from Unda Bet reiterated the company’s commitment to promoting local sports and empowering young footballers through strategic partnerships with community tournaments.
Tournament organizers welcomed the sponsorship, noting that it had raised the profile of the competition while providing much-needed incentives for participating teams.
Beyond the financial support, discussions during the tournament pointed to the possibility of a longer-term partnership between Unda Bet and the Koth Biro Tournament, a move that could further strengthen one of Kenya’s most respected grassroots football competitions.
The successful conclusion of the 46th edition once again demonstrated the enduring appeal of community football in Kenya and underscored the vital role grassroots tournaments continue to play in talent identification and football development across East Africa.
For Mathare Combined, the victory represents a memorable achievement in one of Kenya’s most prestigious off-season tournaments. For Unda Bet, the partnership showcased the positive impact that corporate support can have on grassroots football and community-based sporting initiatives.
