The 2025 KSSSA National Boys’ Football Championship will have a new champion after Musingu High School produced a thrilling performance to knock out holders Highway Secondary School in a 3-2 semifinal classic at the Mumias Sports Complex.
The Scorpions, spurred on by their home crowd, fought from behind twice before sealing victory, ending Highway’s dream of back-to-back national titles. The result also brought Musingu closer to their first national crown in 41 years.
How the Semi-final Unfolded
The highly anticipated clash was a repeat of last year’s final, which Highway won on penalties. This time, Musingu were determined to rewrite history, while Highway, coached by Beldine Odemba and Bernard Kawinzi, aimed to defend their title.
Brenden Mwinamo named an unchanged Musingu lineup, while Odemba made one change, starting Dominic Mulusa in goal.
Highway started strongly, with captain Luis Ochieng winning a free kick within two minutes, though Rial Beliew’s effort sailed over the bar. The early exchanges were cagey, with both sides focusing on midfield battles.
Scorpions’ Haustine Olouch and Highway’s Ian Nzise worked tirelessly in the middle of the park, breaking up play and dictating tempo.
The home side soon grew into the game, with Ochieng Ronny almost scoring in the 15th minute after a clever combination with Marvin Ashiundu and Kelvin Mukaramoja, but goalkeeper Mulusa rushed out to save.
Goals Galore in a Thriller
Highway drew first blood in the 38th minute after a costly defensive lapse from Musingu. Rial Beliew, who has been one of the standout players in the tournament, latched onto a pass from Peter Mulwa and calmly slotted home for his fourth goal of the competition.
The goal briefly silenced the electric Musingu crowd. However, just before halftime, Ashiundu punished a defensive mix-up to equalize, taking his tally to seven goals in the tournament.
Second Half Drama
The second half began cautiously as both teams avoided unnecessary risks. Musingu brought in Ouma Braxton for Kevin Manani, hoping to inject fresh energy, but Highway once again took the lead.
A brilliant move saw Rial Beliew loft the ball to Otongolo Devilion, who volleyed home in style to make it 2-1 for the defending champions.
With time running out, Musingu refused to surrender. In the 85th minute, Mukaramoja won a penalty and converted it himself to level the score.
Moments later, in the 88th minute, a blistering counterattack led by Annan Okumu forced a Highway defender to turn the ball into his own net, handing Musingu a dramatic 3-2 lead.
A Historic Win for Musingu
At full-time, jubilant Musingu fans invaded the pitch as the Scorpions celebrated a historic victory, finally getting revenge on the team that had denied them glory last year.
This win means Musingu are now just one match away from ending their 41-year wait for a national title. They will face the winner of the second semi-final between St. Joseph’s Boys Kitale (JOBO) and Agai Mixed High School in what promises to be a thrilling final.
With the home crowd behind them and momentum on their side, Musingu are brimming with confidence, dreaming of finally lifting the trophy that has eluded them for decades.
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