Radio Africa Group has vowed to come back stronger next season after falling 2-1 on penalties to Bata in the quarterfinals finals of the Standard Chartered Bank Road to Anfield tournament over the weekend.
The teams had played to a 1-1 draw in regular time at St. Mary’s school.
The Westlands-based media house rallied from behind to grab a 2-2 draw against CFAO Mobility in their opener, then squandering a 2-0 lead to draw 3-3 with rival Nation Media Group. RAG beat the Wananchi Group 1-0 before rounding up Group H fixtures with another 1-0 victory over Kenya Airways B.
RAG tied on eight points with Nation Media Group to finish second on goal difference to book their last 16 tickets. Led by Captain George Ajwala, they overcame Batuk B 3-2 in the last 16 to carry their hopes of grabbing the ticket to Anfield into the quarterfinals against Bata Shoe Company.
The Limuru-based shoemakers showed intent from the word go by scoring early through Jackson Mwangi, but Antony Kibet levelled matters with two minutes left to push the match to penalties. Just like in the 2019 edition, Radio Africa fell in the last 8 after losing 2-1 on penalties, with Aidan Kaikai and Alex Agoi missing their spot kicks.
Despite the disappointment, Radio Africa young striker Alex Agoi won the golden boot after scoring eight goals in six matches.
Nation went ahead to win the tournament with a 1-0 victory over Delloiite after overcoming Batuk A 2-0 in the semi-finals, while Delloite beat Bata Shoe Company 3-0.
NMG will travel to Anfield and get the chance to watch Liverpool battle Arsenal in a potential Premier League title decider in May 2025.
Former Harambee stars head Jacob Ghost Mulee, who was on the touchline, believes Radio Africa were the better side and deserved to qualify but were unlucky on penalties.
“We were psyched up and ready for Anfield, but lack wasn’t on our side in the penalties lottery. We will train hard next time and ensure we visit Anfield," said Ghost.
Meanwhile, captain Ajwala congratulated NMG for the win but warned all opponents that it won’t be easy next time.
“No one goes to the battlefield to lose; despite the efforts, we fell in the quarters. We thank the management led by Human resources manager Jemima Ngode for the support, and we hope to win the title next time. Added Ajwala
Liverpool legend Jason McAteer joined over 100 fans in the Standard chartered sponsored tournament, was pleased with the display, and promised the winners a great adventure in the UK.
McAteer, who played for the Reds from 1995 to 1999, added that the tournament lived up to its billing of bringing corporates together and enjoying amateur football.
