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Gikomba-based Team Korogez proved their critics wrong by staging a spirited fight to win the just-ended 2022 Kothbiro annual soccer tournament amid thunderous cheers at the fully packed Umeme Grounds in Ziwani.

Korogez edged Leads United 4-2 through the dreaded penalty shootouts to claim the bragging rights.

Both teams drew 1-1 in the normal 90-minute regulation time before heading to the emotional penalties.

In the regulation time, Issa Ochari gave Korogez the match opener in the 75th minute via a penalty kick.

While the Leads United keeper managed to save the penalty, a blunder from the defence saw Team Korogez manage to set the ball back in.

A few minutes later, Leads United from Kangemi leveled the score through Henry Api, causing a wild celebration from the fans who stormed the pitch.

The man of the match was Korogez goalkeeper James Muimi who saved two spot kicks to keep his team in the game.

The finals were funded by Nairobi Governor Hon. Johnson Sakaja who donated Ksh 300,000 to cater for the four winners.

The 2022’s final clash ended peacefully with no major incident reported.

The tournament’s coordinator Paul “Polosa” Ojenge thanked teams for maintaining peace throughout the entire tournament.

Korogez coach Martin “Polosa” Odera was all smiles after the final whistle. He described the win as a perfect tonic to start the new year.

His opposite counterpart Winston Issa lauded his players for their aggressive display that saw them reach the grand finale.

During the dreaded penalties, Team Korogez scored through Musa Masika, Connell Owino, former Mathare United player Kevin Kimani, and David Kandiri.

The Kangemi side slotted their two spot kicks through Henry Api and Vincent Shiluka after Korogez keeper (James Muimi) spoilt their day by saving two penalties.