Mulembe United beat Nzoia to win bronze in Lidonde Cup

Mulembe United secured the bronze medal in the Lidonde Cup after orchestrating a remarkable comeback to triumph 2-1 against FKF Premier League side Nzoia Sugar at Bukhungu Stadium.

Their journey to the third-place finish began when they faced a setback, losing 1-0 to the Cup holders AFC Leopards on Saturday, relegating them to the playoffs.

Nzoia Sugar fall

Meanwhile, Nzoia Sugar had suffered a 2-0 defeat to Kakamega Homeboyz in the second semi-final.

In the decisive match, Nzoia Sugar took the lead in the 27th minute as Joseph Wafula found the back of the net.

However, Mulembe United swiftly responded three minutes later, leveling the score to 1-1, a deadlock that persisted until the final 15 minutes.

Mulembe United then secured their comeback with a second goal, just nine minutes before the final whistle, leaving Nzoia Sugar unable to equalize and force the match into extra time.

As a result, Mulembe United is set to receive Ksh. 250,000 as their prize, while Nzoia Sugar will take home Ksh. 200,000.

The tournament’s ultimate showdown will take place at the same venue this Sunday, featuring the defending champions AFC Leopards against Kakamega Homeboyz.

The Lidonde Cup, initiated by AFC Leopards, pays tribute to the club’s fallen legends, including the late Elijah Lidonde, who captained both AFC Leopards and Harambee Stars from 1950 to 1961 and passed away in September 1987.

Mulembe United miss 2022 edition

The two-day football tournament, inaugurated in July 2022 at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega, showcased teams such as Nzoia Sugar FC, Vihiga Bullets, Kakamega Homeboyz, and AFC Leopards.

In the 2022 edition, AFC Leopards emerged victorious, clinching an 8-7 victory in a post-match penalty shootout against Nzoia Sugar at Bukhungu Stadium.

The initial game had ended in a goalless draw, prompting the penalty shootout, where AFC Leopards‘ goalkeeper, Maxwell Mulili, played a pivotal role in securing the championship.