BUMA, West Kwaio — Bina Sea Hornbill FC have been crowned champions of the West Kwaio Games 2025 Men’s Soccer Tournament after edging Maoa Rebirth FC 1–0 in a closely contested grand final played at Buma Playing Field.
The grand final attracted a large crowd as the week-long tournament reached its climax ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Both teams displayed disciplined and balanced football in the first half, sharing equal possession and counter-attacks but failing to convert scoring opportunities. The first half ended scoreless at 0–0.
The breakthrough came in the second half when sustained pressure from Bina Sea Hornbill FC forced an error in the Maoa Rebirth FC defence. A defender brought down a Bina attacker inside the penalty area, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Bina Sea Hornbill FC calmly converted the spot kick, scoring the only goal of the match. The final whistle confirmed a 1–0 victory, declaring Bina Sea Hornbill FC champions and cup holders of the West Kwaio Games 2025.
Third Place Play-Off
Earlier on Saturday, 20 December 2025, Kwisi FC secured third place after defeating Foubaba FC 3–0 in the losers’ final. After a tight first half, Kwisi FC broke the deadlock in the second half through a penalty following a foul on their striker. Kwisi FC added two more goals within minutes, sealing a convincing win and third-place finish. Foubaba FC settled for fourth place.
Colourful Closing Ceremony
The official closing ceremony of the West Kwaio Games 2025 was held on Saturday, 20 December 2025, at Buma. The ceremony featured a colourful parade of the top four teams and invited guests, all dressed in their team uniforms.
The program included an opening prayer by Francis Mark, welcome remarks by Wilfred O, and speeches from community and sports representatives, including Netball representative Madam Margaret Water, Local Organising Committee Chairman Ezra Kuki, Chairman of the Ngarilasifono House of Chiefs Tome Lori’imae, a women’s group representative, and keynote speaker and Member of Parliament for West Kwaio, Honourable Claudius Teifi.
Officials for netball and soccer were acknowledged by CPO David Nguaiburi, followed by prize presentations. Netball prizes were presented by accountant Martin T, while soccer awards were presented by Hon. Claudius Teifi. Host acknowledgements were delivered by Fr Francis Mark, Assistant Parish Priest, with a final vote of thanks from Jules Damutalau.
Tournament Results and Awards
Netball Results
1st: SPP
2nd: Buma Red
3rd: F.N Souls
4th: Bona
Golden Hand: Elizabeth Kakasi
Fairest Team: Su’u Harbour FC
Men’s Soccer Results
1st: Bina Sea Hornbill FC
2nd: Maoa Rebirth FC
3rd: Kwisi FC
4th: Foubaba FC
Golden Glove: Jonathan Ganitolo
Golden Boot: Fred Fono (Kwisi FC, 4 goals)
Fairest Team: Naruto’o FC
MP Praises Unity and Youth Development
In his closing address, Hon. Claudius Teifi praised the tournament for bringing unity, energy, and sportsmanship to the West Kwaio constituency. He thanked the organising committee, community leaders, volunteers, referees, coaches, parents, sponsors, and the people of Buma for successfully hosting the event.
He emphasised that the true success of the games lay not only in trophies and medals but in the character, teamwork, and discipline shown by young men and women throughout the tournament. Hon. Teifi reaffirmed his commitment to supporting youth initiatives in sports, education, skills training, music, arts, and economic opportunities.
“As we close the West Kwaio Games 2025, let us leave with renewed energy, stronger friendships, and a shared commitment to building a better future for our people,” he said.
Hon. Teifi officially declared the West Kwaio Games 2025 closed and announced that the 2026 West Kwaio Constituency Games will be hosted in Ward 26.
By Lesley Foinagwa
Stringer
