This archive report was first published on 21 December 2019.
On Saturday, December 21, 2019, the Babadogo Grounds in Nairobi witnessed the thrilling final match of the second edition of the Michael Olunga Tournament.
Lucky Summer Warriors emerged victorious, trouncing Riverside Youth 3-1 in the highly anticipated match.
Victor Omune was the star of the show, scoring two crucial goals in the 20th and 53rd minutes. Caleb Ndinya sealed the win for Warriors in stoppage time, while Riverside's consolation goal was scored by Michael Bwire just after the breather.
Earlier in the day, Roodney Strikers, the team Olunga played for as a kid, edged out IPL by a solitary goal in the third-place play-off match.
For their victory, Warriors took home a trophy, medals, and Sh75,000. Riverside Youth received a trophy and Sh50,000 as runners-up, while Roodney Strikers earned Sh25,000 for finishing third.
Michael Olunga, the tournament's founder, expressed his vision for the event, saying, 'There is raw talent that needs to be tapped in this area where I grew up, and this tournament will help clubs realise there are talented youth who can do better if given opportunities.'
He added, 'I am lucky to have been elevated from poverty through football, but I cannot forget where I came from. It feels good to be back here and interact with some of the coaches who shaped me and also some players whom we grew up and played together as kids in this dusty field.'
The tournament has now moved to Olunga's home county, Homa Bay, with action set to kick off on Tuesday.
