Excitement Builds as Kenyan Football Giants Gear Up for ODM’s 20th Anniversary Tournament in Mombasa

As the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) marks two decades of championing democracy and unity in Kenya, football takes center stage with a thrilling two-day tournament set to kick off on October 9–10, 2025. Hosted at the iconic Mbaraki Sports Grounds, this event brings together some of the nation’s top clubs in a celebration that blends sporting rivalry with political milestone festivities.

The tournament serves as a key highlight in ODM’s extended anniversary program, which has already featured successful regional events across counties like Busia, Wajir, Kisii, and Narok. While the grand finale celebrations have been rescheduled to November 14–16 to allow for broader outreach and inclusivity in additional areas such as Kajiado, Turkana, Kilifi, and Nairobi, the football extravaganza proceeds as planned. This decision underscores ODM’s commitment to engaging communities through diverse activities, fostering participation, and strengthening grassroots connections.

Star-Studded Lineup and Fierce Rivalries

Four powerhouse teams from the Sportpesa League will battle it out: Gor Mahia FC, AFC Leopards FC, Shabana FC, and host side Bandari FC. These clubs represent a mix of storied histories and passionate fanbases, promising high-stakes action on the pitch.

• Gor Mahia FC: Known as the Green Army, Gor Mahia boasts a legacy of dominance in Kenyan football, with multiple league titles and a loyal following that spans the country. Their tactical prowess and attacking flair make them favorites in any matchup.
• AFC Leopards FC: The Ingwe, fierce rivals to Gor Mahia, bring their own brand of resilient play and never-say-die spirit. The historic derby between these two Nairobi-based giants often steals the spotlight, drawing massive crowds and intense emotions.
• Shabana FC: Hailing from Kisii, Shabana adds regional flavor with their gritty determination and underdog appeal. Fresh from recent campaigns, they’re eager to prove their mettle against top-tier competition.
• Bandari FC: As the home team in Mombasa, Bandari will enjoy local support at Mbaraki. Their coastal style of play emphasizing speed and creativity could give them an edge in familiar surroundings.

Adding a unique twist, the tournament winners will face off in an exhibition match against Chungwa FC a special squad composed of ODM party members, including legislators from Bunge FC. This friendly clash symbolizes the intersection of politics and sport, highlighting how football can unite diverse groups.

Tournament Format and Schedule

The event adopts a straightforward knockout format, ensuring non-stop drama over the two days. Semi-finals kick off on Thursday, October 9, followed by placement games and the final on Friday, October 10. Here’s the full lineup:

Thursday, October 9

• 2:00 PM: Bandari FC vs. AFC Leopards FC
• 4:00 PM: Shabana FC vs. Gor Mahia FC

Friday, October 10

• 12:00 PM: Third-place playoff (losers from semi-finals)
• 2:00 PM: Final (winners from semi-finals)
• Exhibition Match: Tournament champions vs. Chungwa FC

The draw for these pairings was conducted last week, setting the stage for potential upsets and memorable moments. With matches packed into afternoon slots, fans can expect a vibrant atmosphere under the Mombasa sun complete with cheering crowds and the electric energy of Kenyan football.

A Platform for Unity and Growth in Kenyan Sports

Beyond the goals and tackles, this tournament represents more than just a sporting event, it’s a testament to ODM’s 20 years of resilience in promoting democratic values and community involvement. By integrating football, a national passion, into their anniversary agenda, ODM aims to inspire youth participation, bridge regional divides, and showcase the role of sports in nation-building.

For the clubs involved, the tournament offers valuable pre-season exposure and a chance to engage with fans outside regular league fixtures. In a broader sports business context, events like this boost local economies through tourism, merchandise sales, and media coverage, while reinforcing Kenya’s position as a hub for African football talent.

As the whistle blows tomorrow, all eyes will be on Mbaraki Sports Grounds. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter of Gor Mahia, a Leopards loyalist, or simply a fan of great football, this ODM-backed showdown promises to deliver excitement, unity, and perhaps a few surprises.

Stay tuned for what could be one of the most talked-about tournaments of the year in Kenya.