KENYA and Tanzania showcased their soccer prowess in the 15th edition of the East African Youth Soccer Tournament, the Chipkizi Cup, with both countries claiming four trophies across various categories.

Kenya excelled primarily in the boys’ categories, with the Lace-Up Academy triumphing in the Under-7 competition, Soccer Talents clinching the Under-15 title, Dream Soccer Academy securing the Under-11 trophy, and Soccer Africa taking the Under-9 crown.

Tanzania’s victories spanned both boys’ and girls’ categories. The Future Stars Academy of Arusha secured the Under-11 girls’ title, while the Fountain Gate Academy of Dodoma claimed the Under-20 girls’ crown. 

The boys’ teams also shone, with Fountain Gate winning the Under-17 category and the Tanzanite Academy of Morogoro clinching the Under-20 title.

The Chipkizi Cup attracted a total of 330 teams from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Zanzibar. 

Uganda’s Kick It Soccer Academy emerged victorious in the Under-15 boys’ category, while Zanzibar’s Dulla Academy claimed the Under-13 title, building on their Under-11 victory in last year’s tournament.

Organized by the Future Stars Sports Academy (FSA) of Arusha, the week-long tournament has become a vital platform for identifying and nurturing young talent across Africa.

“The East African Youth Soccer Tournament celebrates talent and consistently delivers. The Chipkizi Cup has been instrumental in producing young stars who progress to bigger teams across Africa and beyond,” said Alfred Itaeli, Director of Future Stars.

Zakayo Mjema, Chairperson of the Arusha Regional Football Association (ARFA), praised the tournament for fostering talent and enhancing Tanzania’s reputation as a hub for young soccer players.

“These events have transformed Tanzania into a talent factory, nurturing fresh football prospects from across the East African region. Many of these players eventually earn opportunities to play overseas,” Mjema noted during the finals ceremony.