By Muhammed Dampha
Jola Kunda FC have been crowned 2026 Serrekunda East Sports Development Organization (SESDO) Yonna Islamic Microfinance Knockout Cup champions after edging Cannon FC 6-5 on penalties following a thrilling 1-1 draw at a jam-packed Serrekunda East Mini Stadium, which was filled to capacity.
The final burst into life in the 12th minute when a defensive miscommunication between Cannon’s goalkeeper and defender presented Muhammed Susso with an opportunity inside the box, but Cannon managed to scramble the ball behind for a corner. Four minutes later, Babucarr Ngum came to his side’s rescue, positioning himself perfectly to intercept Musa Bojang’s dangerous cross.
However, Jola Kunda FC eventually found the breakthrough in the 22nd minute after capitalising on a misplaced Cannon attack. Francis D. Mendy produced a magnificent pass from the middle of the park to release Bojang, who made no mistake, slotting clinically into the bottom-right corner to hand his side a 1-0 advantage.
Cannon searched for an equaliser, with Ebrima Jallow testing his luck in the 40th minute after dispossessing Modou Lamin Jammeh, but his powerful effort drifted wide. Jola Kunda responded with a slick exchange of passes three minutes later, creating an opening for midfield maestro Mendy, whose attempt failed to trouble the target. Despite the late exchanges, Jola Kunda maintained their advantage heading into the break with a deserved 1-0 lead.
Both sides returned from the dressing room with renewed energy. Cannon threatened through Ebrima Jallow’s 47th minute header, brilliantly saved by Sang Baptish Jarju. The Jola Kunda custodian produced another outstanding save to deny Sarjo Jallow’s free kick in the 59th minute. However, Ebrima Jallow levelled matters two minutes later with a simple finish. Mendy came close in the 69th minute, but his powerful effort went wide.
With both teams adopting a cautious approach and protecting their backlines, neither could find a winner. The contest went to penalties, where Jola Kunda FC held their nerve to triumph 6-5. Musa Bojang of Jola Kunda FC was named Man of the Match and received a certificate.
Reflecting on the historic triumph, head coach Louie SA Gomez of Jola Kunda expressed his excitement and credited his players for their determination, saying:
“I feel very excited because we fought hard for this trophy. We have never reached this stage before, and this victory belongs to our community. I give all the credit to my boys for their hard work because I cannot do it alone. I dedicate this victory to my late brother, who passed away in June this year.” Mendy said.
Meanwhile, Cannon’s head coach and assistant coach declined post-match interviews, explaining:
“We are emotional, and right now we cannot face the press for an interview.”
As champions, Jola Kunda FC received gold medals, a giant trophy and a cash prize of D60,000, while Cannon FC settled for silver medals and D50,000 as runners-up.
After 14 years of waiting, Jola Kunda FC have finally ended their long quest for glory. From years of heartbreak and perseverance to a glorious night of celebration, they have conquered the SESDO summit and etched their names into the competition’s history. The wait is over, the crown is theirs, and Jola Kunda FC have given their community a moment to cherish forever.
