KUCHING: Kabitra FC held their nerve in a penalty shootout to defeat Vettam FC 4-1 and win the Sambir Veteran Invitational Football Championship 2026 after a goalless final in Kampung Sambir, Asajaya.
The final proved a tightly contested affair, with both sides failing to break the deadlock in regulation time despite spirited attacking exchanges and disciplined defending.
Kabitra FC, widely regarded as one of the pre-tournament favourites, were pushed to their limits by a resilient Vettam FC side that matched them throughout the 90 minutes before the match headed into penalties.
In the shootout, Kabitra FC showed greater composure, converting their chances clinically while Vettam FC were left to rue missed opportunities as they fell 4-1.
The victory secured Kabitra FC the championship title and top honours in the veteran competition, which featured 12 participating teams from various clubs and communities.
Kabitra FC took home RM1,500 in prize money, along with the championship trophy and medals, while runners-up Vettam FC received RM1,000, a trophy and medals.
Meanwhile, Komeng 6000 and Moyan Laut, who both exited at the semi-final phase, shared third place honours, each receiving RM500, a trophy and medals.
Other participating teams in the tournament included Kasiba, GBO Otai, Boca Legend FT, Brother Mix, UniMAS, AJV, Sambir Bistari and Boxer 3ZL, reflecting strong community involvement across the competition.
Tournament chairman Jalek Jaafar said the veteran championship served as a complementary event to the main Asajaya Unity Cup, adding vibrancy to the overall football programme in the area.
He said the initiative was aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyles among veteran players while also strengthening community ties through sport.
“Congratulations to the winning team, and thank you to all participating teams and organisers for their cooperation throughout the tournament,” he said.
Jalek expressed hope that the strong cooperation among stakeholders would continue for future editions, ensuring the tournament’s growth and sustainability.
He added that such events play an important role in promoting unity and fostering closer relationships among players and communities.
