Kenyan Manchester United fans celebrate at Nyayo Stadium/HANDOUT
Manchester United supporters may have secured bragging rights over their Arsenal rivals, but SportPesa chief executive Ronald Karauri has warned the Red Devils not to get too comfortable, promising that a rematch is already on the horizon.
Karauri issued the playful challenge after an exhibition match between fans of the two English giants attracted more than 20,000 supporters to Nyayo Stadium on Sunday in a celebration of football, entertainment and fan culture.
Led by comedian Eric Omondi, the Manchester United side emerged victorious after a lively encounter that also saw content creator Useful Idioty marshal the Arsenal faithful.
Omondi's recruitment of fellow comedian Mulamwah added humour to a contest marked by spirited banter and competitive tackles.
"Congratulations to Eric Omondi and the entire Manchester United side for taking the bragging rights today – you earned it. But don't get too comfortable. A rematch is on the way," Karauri said.
Despite the fierce rivalry on the pitch, supporters from both camps shared the stands and were treated to a live performance by rapper Khaligraph Jones, turning the occasion into a festival-like atmosphere.
Karauri said the event demonstrated football's power to unite people.
"Arsenal fans and Manchester United fans – two of the most passionate football communities in Kenya – put aside the rivalry and shared one pitch, one stage and one unforgettable afternoon," he said.
SportPesa Head of Partnerships and Sponsorships Japheth Akhulia said the turnout and atmosphere created by supporters were the biggest highlights of the day.
"United came through, but more importantly, the fans came through. They created an absolutely amazing atmosphere," said Akhulia.
He said SportPesa partnered with Eric Omondi and Useful Idioty to bring the event to life and promised more fan experiences in the future.
"The game was exciting and we saw the talent from these content creators. We believe this is just the beginning. SportPesa will be here to give fans more and more experiences," he said.
Akhulia added that the company would continue taking football closer to supporters through its "stadium on wheels" initiative and activations around the ongoing World Cup.
Sunday's event highlighted the growing influence of fan communities and digital creators in Kenyan football, with thousands of supporters setting aside club rivalries to celebrate their shared love of the game.
"This is what sport does. It doesn't divide – it unites. It turns rivals into neighbours and strangers into friends, even if only for 90 minutes," Karauri said.
