Jonam County etched their names in the history books of the MTN Kopu P’ubimu Cup, defeating defending champions Padyere County 1-0 in a thrilling final match at Pacego Primary School.
The solitary goal, scored by Samuel Rwothomio in stoppage time, secured Jonam the title, dethroning last year’s champions.
The final match was a tense affair, with both teams locked in a battle of wills. Padyere, the 6th edition champions, defended resolutely, but Jonam’s persistence paid off. Rwothomio’s late strike sparked jubilant celebrations from the Jonam faithful.
Jonam’s head coach, Simon Peter, praised his team’s perseverance and determination.
“We knew Padyere was a tough nut to crack,” he said. “We focused on defending and attacking with purpose. We created several chances in the first half, but Padyere’s goalkeeper made some fantastic saves. In the end, luck was on our side.”
With the win, Jonam County walked away with UGX 4 million and the coveted MTN Kopu P’ubimu Cup. Padyere, who finished as runners-up, were awarded UGX 2 million, while Okoro County, the third-place team, received UGX 500,000.
The final day of the tournament also featured the MTN-Ker Alur 3rd edition of bicycle races. In the women’s race, Jenety Acibu from Jonam County emerged as the champion, while Anthony Keruneka and his son Justine Opakrwoth claimed first and second place, respectively, in the men’s race.
MTN’s Commercial Head Officer, Phillips Odoi, expressed his appreciation for Ker Alur’s efforts to unite youth through sports. He encouraged the winners to invest their prize money wisely and pledged MTN’s continued support to the community.
Vincent Ochaya, Executive Director of Ker Alur, emphasized that this year’s MTN Kopu P’ubimu was not just about sports but also about raising awareness on key social issues affecting the youth.
The tournament’s grand finale set the stage for the upcoming 14th coronation anniversary of Ubimu Phillips Olarker Rauni III, which will take place on October 26, 2024.
