MAMBOLEO,12th Sept 2026 – The Indomitable Soldiers of St Peters Wagai High School caused a major upset, silencing defending champions Mighty Obunga FC 1-0 to march into the Safaricom Chapa Dimba Nyanza Regional Finals, Season Five.
It was Nelson Warambo’s moment of magic that separated the two sides. In a neat build-up, Warambo beat the offside trap, rounded the keeper, and fired a low thunderous strike into the bottom corner to give Wagai a priceless first-half lead in the epic semi-final duel at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium, Mamboleo.
Obunga pushed for an equalizer in the second half, enjoying more possession and piling pressure in the final third, but the Soldiers stood firm. The Gem-based side remained compact, disciplined and indefatigable at the back, frustrating Obunga’s frontline to secure a famous clean sheet.
Speaking after the match, Wagai tactician Nicholas Owende said being branded underdogs inspired his boys.
“Obunga underrated us before and during the match because they were playing against school children. In fact, they even visited our training camp wondering how we reached this level. So I encouraged my boys to stay focused, stick to the game plan and uphold high mental strength,” Owende said.
He added that his side is ready for the final against Awendo Academy as they chase the coveted regional crown and the Sh1 million grand prize.
Despite nursing a head knock, full-back Alex Alando put in a Man-of-the-Match display in defence.
“I couldn’t afford to miss playing because of a small issue. I had to fight for the badge,” said Alando, who played the game with a white bandage wrapped around his head.
He called on fans and football lovers to turn out in large numbers, insisting the Soldiers are confident of lifting the title.
Obunga FC head coach Evans Oketch was gracious in defeat.
“Our opponents got one chance, scored and defended well. In every game there is always a winner and a loser,” Oketch said, noting that a single defensive error cost them. He vowed that Obunga will bounce back next edition to reclaim their title.
In the girls’ category, two-time defending champions Plateau Queens of Nyakach Girls High School ran riot, thrashing Masosa Starlets 8-0 to qualify for the finals, while Hedso Queens hammered Otendo Comprehensive Starlets 4-0 to set up a mouth-watering final.
In the boys’ category, Awendo FC dispatched Kendu Muslims 2-0.
Twelve teams had been crowned county champions in the run-up to the Nyanza Regionals, with winners pocketing Sh75,000 and runners-up Sh30,000 plus individual accolades. Players and coaches also took part in mentorship and coaching clinics.
The Nyanza Regional Finals for both boys and girls will be played on 13th September 2026 at the same venue.
