By Nyanza Wire 
KIAMBU, Kenya — Barcelona FC and VSRI were crowned champions as the eighth edition of the Jeff Kuria Football Tournament concluded at Ruthigiti Stadium in Kikuyu, Kiambu County, with 16 teams competing in the men’s and women’s categories.
Barcelona FC claimed the men’s title after edging Wazee 1-0 in the final. The victory earned the champions KSh100,000, while Wazee received KSh50,000 as runners-up.
In the women’s competition, VSRI secured the championship with a 1-0 victory over Musiengen. The winners also took home KSh100,000, with the runners-up receiving KSh50,000.
The tournament provided young footballers with a competitive grassroots platform to showcase their ability while bringing communities together through sport.
Betika, which served as the official sponsoring partner for the eighth edition, said its support was aimed at creating opportunities for young people and helping nurture sporting talent at the grassroots.
Betika Head of Brand Eric Mwiti said grassroots football remains an important pathway for young players seeking opportunities to develop and showcase their talent.
“Grassroots football is where talent begins,” Mwiti said, adding that the tournament gives young people an opportunity to compete, be seen and believe their abilities can take them further.
He particularly highlighted the participation of both men and women, saying the tournament had provided a platform for young players across both categories to compete and excel.
Tournament founder Jeff Kuria said the competition continues to focus on identifying and empowering emerging talent by giving players opportunities to compete and demonstrate their abilities.
Now in its eighth edition, the Jeff Kuria Football Tournament has evolved into a grassroots sporting platform designed to connect promising young players with opportunities that can support their development.
The partnership with Betika has also strengthened the tournament’s community focus, with sport being used as a vehicle for talent development and youth engagement.
The conclusion of the eighth edition underlines the growing role of grassroots competitions in providing young footballers with competitive exposure and opportunities to pursue their sporting ambitions.
Walter Akillah