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Achievers FC beat Nkoroi 5-4 on post-match penalties to win the Pulpit na Grao Football Tournament in Kajiado county, with organisers saying the competition is aimed at using sport to steer young people away from negative influences. The final ended goalless in regulation time before Achievers prevailed in the shootout. Pastor Zack Lukuba of Nairobi Chapel Ongata Rongai said the tournament, which started in 2024, is part of the church’s mission to empower children and youth from surrounding communities, including Kware, Bangala, Gataka and Kisumu Ndogo. “We use football as a powerful and uplifting platform to promote discipline, teamwork and life skills while steering young people away from negative influences. At the same time, we share hope, mentorship and strong values grounded in the Gospel,” Lukuba said. “Our mission is to create a safe, inclusive and inspiring environment where young people can grow, thrive and build a brighter future.” Lukuba urged more teams from Kajiado and neighbouring areas to participate in the annual tournament, saying it provides young people with a positive environment while developing their football talent. “I’m asking other teams from within this region and other outlying areas to come and play this tournament and ensure that the young people in this county don’t get into bad habits and vices,” he said. Achievers completed a double by winning the Under-15 title after beating Rift Valley Sports Club 2-0 in the final. Cleophas Onyango of Umoja Green was the top scorer with six goals, while Solomon Mwangi was named best goalkeeper. In the girls’ category, Thundercats thrashed Achievers 4-1, with Blessing Gitua finishing as top scorer with five goals. Mitchell Owiti was voted the best goalkeeper. Rift Valley Sports Association won the Under-13 title after beating Nkoroi 2-0, while Rift Valley also took the Under-11 crown with a 2-1 victory over Achievers. Mtanni FC won the Under-9 category after defeating Umoja Green 2-0, with Antonio Martial finishing as the top scorer with six goals. Fidel Aluga of Mtanni was the senior category’s top scorer with four goals, while Zadock Kimani was named best goalkeeper.