Seed wins Copa Coca Cola tourney

South East Education Division (Seed) are this year’s Copa Coca Cola champions after beating Central West Education Division (Cwed) 2-0 in the final match at the Bingu National Stadium (BNS) in Lilongwe on Saturday.

Rafik Edward and Festus Duwe scored the crucial goals for Seed. The third-place slot went to Shire Highlands Education Division (Shed)  who beat Central East Education Division (Ceed) 3-2 in post-match penalties after playing out a two-all draw in regulation time.

Seed chairperson Blessings Kumitsonyo could not contain his joy after the final whistle.

“I think we deserved to win this tournament.  We were outstanding  despite hitches during preparations. We had no money for camping and I had to use my personal resources for the team to prepare for the tournament. It has not been an easy journey, but I am glad that we have been rewarded for all the efforts,” he said.

Takunda Jinda, Coca Cola’s marketing activation manager responsible for Zambia and Malawi, expressed satisfaction with both the organisation and the talent exposed during the finals.

“It has been a good tournament. What has impressed me most is that the finals took place at a big venue like this one [BNS]. It is great exposure for the youngsters,” he said.

Jinda also had praise for Malawi Schools Sports Association (Massa) for the organisation of the tournament.

“As Coca Cola, we are pleased with the work done by Massa. Our relationship is great and they continue to do a good job,” he said.

Raphael Agabu, director of inspectorate and advisory services in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, commended Coca Cola for decades of commitment in promoting sports at grassroots.

“For football to develop, there is need to invest in grassroots foootball. We thank Coca Cola for complementing government efforts in ensuring that football is active at grassroots level,” he said. n