In a thrilling showdown at Gusii Stadium on Thursday, August 8, 2024 Highway Secondary School from Nairobi emerged victorious, claiming their first-ever Kenya Secondary School Sports Association (KSSSA) boys’ football championship.
The tense final against Musingu High School from the Western region ended in a 3-2 win on post-match penalties, with Highway goalkeeper Boaz Muchiri playing a pivotal role by saving two penalties.
The match, played before a capacity crowd of over 15,000 fans, was a nail-biter from start to finish. Musingu took an early lead through Elvis Ochieng, also known as “Kante,” but Highway’s Alvin Oloo equalized in the 19th minute, setting the stage for a dramatic encounter. The teams remained deadlocked at 1-1 through regular and extra time.
Highway faced adversity when their captain, Miguel Osotsi, was sent off for a second bookable offense during added time. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Highway held their ground, pushing the game to penalties.
During the shootout, Humphrey Aroko, Luis Ochieng, and Tyrone Ochieng converted their spot-kicks for Highway, while Stanley Wilson and Harrison Amalemba found the net for Musingu. However, Muchiri’s heroics between the posts ensured Highway’s historic victory.
The win could be attributed to the tactical prowess of head coach Beldine Odemba, who also coaches Harambee Starlets and Kenya Police Bullet FC, alongside her assistant Stephen Ochola.
Odemba’s leadership steered Highway to glory, overcoming the odds and lifting the coveted trophy which they missed in 2022 after being defeated by Ebwali 1-0 in the final at Nakuru High School.
Humphrey Aroko was named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament, wowing the crowd with his skillful dribbling, precise passes, and deadly free kicks. Musingu’s Arnold Shivachi received accolades as the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
Highway’s entertaining style of play made them the crowd favourites, and their victory was celebrated by the massive gathering of fans in Kisii.