The excitement at the 2024 Okapya Annual Soccer Tournament reached new heights as Tse Ya Kuku FC emerged victorious after a hard-fought battle, defeating Omandindi FC 1-0 in a thrilling final held at Eleven Morning Star Soccer Field on 29 December 2024. 

This victory marks a historic achievement for Tse Ya Kuku, claiming their third win in the tournament’s history, having previously triumphed in 2019 and 2020. For Omandindi, it was the second time they had faced off with Tse Ya Kuku in the final.

In front of an energised crowd, Tse Ya Kuku walked away with N$20 000, 18 gold medals, a trophy, and a brand-new football kit. 

Omandindi, despite their valiant efforts, had to settle for second place, earning N$10 000, 18 silver medals, and a new kit. Meanwhile, third-place finishers, Family FC, received N$2 500, 18 bronze medals, and fourth-place Casablanca FC claimed N$2 500 as well.

In the veterans’ category, Northern Coaches proved their dominance by defeating Ondangwa Masters 2-0 in the final. It was a rematch from the previous year’s championship final, but this time Northern Coaches were the victors. They won N$10 000, 18 gold medals, a trophy, and a football kit. Ondangwa Masters, who came second, took home N$6 000, 18 silver medals, and a football kit. Ondangwa Legends secured third place, earning N$2 000 and 18 bronze medals, while Gwa Pau Legends walked away with N$2 000.

Among individual accolades, Silva Kamhulu of Omandindi FC was named Player of the Tournament, walking away with N$1 000 for his exceptional performance. Sassa Boys’ George Nanyeni earned the Golden Boot after scoring four goals, while taking home the Golden Boot trophy and N$700. In recognition of their standout performances, every ‘Man of the Match’ from the Round of 16 matches was awarded N$200, a water bottle, Bonaqua, Sunsation Juice, and a Predator Energy drink.

Originally scheduled for 19 to 22 December, the tournament had to be rescheduled due to Debmarine Namibia Premier League, first, second and third division matches. Despite the challenge of adverse weather, which forced organisers to relocate the event midway through the competition, the tournament went ahead and drew a crowd of approximately 10 000 attendees. 

Founder and organiser of the tournament, Sandro Ithana, mentioned that there were 17 exhibitors in total and expressed his gratitude for the success of the event. “It serves as a platform for teams to scout new talent and strengthen their squads, but more importantly, it keeps young people engaged during the festive season, which we believe is key to reducing crime,” said Ithana. 

The tournament was proudly sponsored by Okapya Liner Transport (main sponsor), Onamulunga Service Station, Coca-Cola, Nampower, Sunsation Juice, Bonaqua, Alv Consulting Engineers, Atai Investment CC, NBC, Piyet Service, Predator Energy Drink, Energy 100 FM, Shipi FM, FI Electrical and Construction, Good One Media, Shili Ambulance, and Kashipu Investment CC.

Esteemed dignitaries such as Tatekulu Fillemon Shuumbwa Nangolo, the King of Ondonga, governor of Oshana Elia Irimari, president of the Namibia Football Association Robert Shimooshili, and former Brave Gladiator soccer star Corry Angula graced this year’s tournament, adding to the event’s prestige. The competition, which saw an increase in the number of participating teams – from 35 in 2023 to 41 last year- featured 30 regular youth football teams and 11 veteran teams, marking a growing interest and enthusiasm for the event.