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Mlandege players rewarded after winning Mapinduzi Cup

Mlandege FC players and officials celebrate after winning the 2024 Mapinduzi Cup trophy. PHOTO | COURTESY

What you need to know:

  • Mlandege Football Club were on Saturday, January 13, 2024, night crowned Mapinduzi Cup winners after recording 1-0 victory against giants, Simba, in a thrilling match at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar

Mpandege FC players are dancing to the tune of sweet victory, both on the pitch and in their bank accounts.

After successfully defending their Mapinduzi Cup title with a nail-biting 1-0 win over football giants Simba, they can now also claim Sh60 million from the coveted Sh100 million prize money!

This generous share, up from last year's Sh35 million and motorcycles, reflects the club's dedication and the growing value of the tournament.

The magic moment came in the 54th minute when Ugandan midfield maestro Joseph Akandwanaho weaved through Simba's defense, scoring the solo goal that would etch Mlandege's name in Mapinduzi Cup history. President Hussein Ali Mwinyi, himself a guest of honor, witnessed the triumph and personally presented the trophy to the jubilant champions.

While Simba took home a respectable Sh70 million for their valiant effort, the real story lies with Mlandege. Club secretary general Hussein Ali Ahmada showered his players with praise, attributing their win to "fighting spirits" and a relentless display of talent.

He emphasised the team's journey, facing "strong opposition" but rising above the challenge to "shine" throughout the tournament.

But the spoils don't stop there. Ahmada promised additional rewards from "team stakeholders and sponsors," recognizing the players' crucial role in not only claiming victory but also achieving a historical feat - the first-ever back-to-back Mapinduzi Cup wins!

This triumph, says Ahmada, is "an extra mile for the team and Zanzibar football."

The tournament itself was a spectacle, a fierce display of skill and determination from Zanzibar's very own KVZ, Jamhuri, and Chipukizi, alongside regional heavyweights like Young Africans, Azam FC, APR, Vital'O, and Jamus.

But with their double victory, Mlandege FC has truly cemented their place as champions both on the field and in the hearts of Zanzibar's passionate fans