This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
On June 29, 2019, Dagoretti High School secured their spot as the COPA Coca-Cola Under-16 Nairobi regional champions after a thrilling match against Upper Hill High School at Lenana School in Nairobi.
The decisive moment came in the 16th minute when Kubasu Abuyeka scored a remarkable free kick, giving Dagoretti High School a crucial lead.
Upper Hill High School regrouped in the second half, but their efforts to equalize were unsuccessful, and Dagoretti High School held on to their victory.
Upper Hill Coach Gilbert Walusimbi acknowledged the tough competition, stating, "It was fairly a good game. We tried our best to retain the trophy but our opponents had luck on their side. Our three crucial players, Teddy Andrew, Salman Abdil Kadir, and Newton Ochieng were not feeling well and hence our team lacked the agility in midfield and attack. We look forward to the next year's championship."
Meanwhile, in the ladies' finals, Dagorretti Mixed Secondary School dominated Pangani Girls High School with a convincing 5-2 win, securing their spot in the national finals.
The tournament, which has been running since 2008, has seen over 10,000 students participate, with 5,400 schools registered and competing for the regional championship.
The COPA Coca-Cola Under-16 tournament is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education, Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA), and The Coca-Cola Company.
