The Makaveli FC Tournament Kisumu delivered one of the most thrilling events of the 2026 FC season so far, bringing together top talent from across Kenya in a star-studded showdown.
A total of 31 players took part in the competition. The tournament began with four groups, with the top two players from each group advancing to the knockout rounds.
From there, the competition moved into a double-elimination bracket, setting up several intense matchups.
In the end, it was Sam Jr who emerged victorious at the Makaveli FC Tournament Kisumu after a dramatic final against Trex of TR Esports, which is under the management of Jafar.
The final, which was initially expected to conclude on Sunday, stretched into Monday evening, producing what many are already calling one of the best matches of the 2026 season so far.
Trex showed remarkable resilience by resetting the bracket after winning the first game, forcing a decisive match.
However, Sam Jr held his nerves and claimed victory in thrilling fashion to lift the title. For his triumph, Sam Jr walked away with KSh 15,000 in prize money.
Trex, who finished as runner-up, received KSh 10,000, while Mcoasty of Santiago secured third place and KSh 5,000.
Sam Jr has continued to establish himself as one of the top FC 26 pro players in Kenya, consistently producing outstanding performances in major tournaments.
Rambo 254 Joins Makaveli Esports After Solid Performance at Makaveli FC Tournament Kisumu
One of the biggest stories from the tournament was the signing of Rambo 254, a talented player from Kakamega, by Makaveli Esports.
Rambo now joins a roster that already includes Alloys and Dulo, strengthening the team’s growing presence in the East African FC scene.
His tournament run included a deep progression into the knockout stages, although he was stopped in the winners’ bracket semifinal, where he suffered a devastating 6–1 defeat to eventual champion Sam Jr.
Despite the loss, his performances were impressive enough to earn him a place on the roster.
Initially, the organizers had announced plans to sign three players from the tournament. However, only Rambo 254 was signed after the event.
The organizers have since revealed that they are preparing another tournament soon, where the remaining two players are expected to be signed.
This announcement is likely to generate even more excitement in the Kenyan competitive FC community.
Big Names in Kisumu
The Kisumu event attracted several notable names from the Kenyan FC scene, with major players travelling from Nairobi to Kisumu.
Among the stars in attendance were:
- Shaq (Z Esports)
- Mcoasty (Santiago)
- Ado (Phoenix Gamers
- BrayoVin (Santiago)
- Collo Gamer (Z Esports)
- Sam Jr (Phoenix)
- Trex (TR Esports)
Their presence added prestige and elevated the level of competition.
Shock Group Stage Exits
The group stage also delivered a number of surprises.
Notable names who failed to advance to the knockouts include:
- Delo (Phoenix Gamers)
- Jaffar (TR Esports)
- Scad (SC)
These early exits highlighted the competitiveness of the tournament.
From a dramatic final and prize money showdown to a major roster signing, the Makaveli FC Tournament has set an early benchmark for the Kenyan FC 26 competitive season.
With another tournament already on the way, fans now have even more to look forward to.
