The second edition of the Oba of Benin U-18 football tournament got underway at the Crescent Sports Club football pitch. It began with a thrilling encounter between United FC and BJ FC.
BJ FC dominated the game, with Izu Okeke scoring a brace in the 11th and 38th minute to give his team a 2-0 lead in the first half. Whereas United FC struggled to find their feet, missing several clear-cut chances and getting their only goal ruled offside. Osama Osarenkhoe sealed the victory for BJ FC with a goal in the 74th minute, ending the game 3-0 in their favour.
In an exclusive interview with Platinumnewsng.com, the FA Chairman, Fred Newton, talked about the progress recorded in the tournament since it was initiated last year.
“Last year, which was the first edition, we had veterans participating, but this year, we decided to switch to U-18 as they have not been involved in any tournament since we took office as even the cup donor agreed.
Fred Newton also spoke on the growth of the tournament and the prizes at stake.
“From five veterans teams that participated last year, we now have nineteen U-18 teams this year, and we have coaches on the ground who are already scouting for good players who they can get into their teams”.
“Also, the first place team will receive 1 million naira, while the second and third place teams will get 750 and 500 thousand naira; we also have awards for best coach and tournament MVP.”
He also revealed that the cup donor promised that the winning team in the next edition will represent Nigeria in the Gothia Cup in Sweden and the Denmark Cup tournaments saying “It will allow the teams to explore and fly the clubs flag high”