Chapa Dimba All-Stars Make Grand Debut in Spanish Training Camp

Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars set off officially on their much-anticipated Spanish tour with a rigorous one-week football camp at the highly acclaimed training facilities of SD Huesca.

The project is the beginning of a journey that has been designed to expose emerging Kenyan footballers to first-class training, professional academy environments, and cultural interaction.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

Day one of the camp set the tone for a challenging but rewarding itinerary.

After being welcomed and briefed, the All-Stars went through masterclasses in modern football techniques.

Later, the ladies' team had their inaugural training session with Huesca's U23 Academy.

The training syllabus included tactics, ball skills, and physical training—skills needed to bridge the gap between grass-roots and elite-class football.

The team also made a trip to the historic Casco Histórico de Huesca in a football development and cultural experience balance that captures the holistic nature of the tour, where players learn on and off the pitch.

“We had a fantastic training session in the morning with the girls’ team, and I can see great potential in them. My focus was on teaching them how to play faster, keeping the ball moving and ensuring that every player adjusts their movement accordingly," said Juan Ramon Fung, U23 SD Huesca C Coach.

It’s not something you master overnight, but they are already grasping the concept. Some of them read the game very quickly, they are fit, and capable of delivering quality long passes. I also worked with them on decision-making in front of goal, knowing when to shoot and executing with just one touch inside the box. Their progress so far is."

Chapa Dimba All-Stars Girls later took to the pitch to face SD Huesca's boys' U13 team in an intense friendly match.

The match was concluded in a 2-2 draw, demonstrating how technically sound and solid the Kenyan side has grown. The game was not just about the win for the players but also about managing the game, how to play as a team, and positional play against a professional academy system.

The exposure to playing against such high-quality opposition is invaluable for the All-Stars, pushing them out of their comfort zones and accelerating their progress. The games also act as a reality check when it comes to the expectations of football in the modern world, where pace, decision-making, and flexibility are key.

One of the loudest voices was striker Martha Nafula, who reminisced about her experience in Huesca with excitement and optimism.

“I am really excited to be here in Huesca. The conditions are great, almost like back home in Kenya. Facing the U13 boys’ team was a good challenge, and I picked up a lot both from the training session and the match.," she said.

"As a striker, you have to be sharp inside the box, making quick decisions, taking fewer touches, and finishing chances without hesitation. The style of training here is a bit different from what we are used to, and it’s pushing me to improve my game. The week is just beginning, and I am eager to pick up even more in the sessions to come.” Said Martha Nafula, All Star player."

In the coming week, the camp continues with more masterclasses, tactical sessions, and more friendly games.

On Tuesday, the boys' team was scheduled to face Huesca U23 team in what promises to be another valuable test.

The Spanish tour comes under Safaricom Chapa Dimba Season 4, which is an initiative to scout grassroots football talent, bring them to the world stage, and create a platform for Kenyan players to pursue careers as professionals.