Anthony Ogudu stands head and shoulders above the rest as the race for the Golden Boot in the 2026 Benin City Youth League is heating up at just Matchday Nine, with only six rounds of matches left to decide who finishes as the league’s deadliest striker.
Leading the charge is Victoria FA forward Anthony Ogudu, who currently sits atop the scoring chart with six goals. Ogudu’s consistency in front of goal has been vital for Victoria FA this season, and his sharp finishing ability continues to set him apart in the title race. His dip in form has also seen his team manage only two goals in the last three games with one point recorded out of a possible 9.
Closely chasing him are a trio of players tied on five goals each. BJ Football Club duo Success Fadoju and Yakubu Ashiru have formed one of the most dangerous attacking partnerships in the league, contributing heavily to their club’s impressive campaign. Rolly FC’s Friday Asata also remains firmly in contention after another influential outing for his side.
Ine Stars striker Lucky Akowe occupies the next spot with four goals, keeping himself within touching distance of the frontrunners as the race intensifies.
The battle becomes even more crowded among the players on three goals. Rolly FC’s Raymond Ikheoba, BJ FC midfielder Osazuwa Imafidon, Alhaji FC’s Destiny Idahosa, Dynamo’s Purpose Ayemogie, Benin Warriors forward Bobby Julius, and Eagle Wings striker David Orode have all shown flashes of brilliance and could still mount a late challenge with several games remaining.
A large number of other “contenders” on two goals further says a lot about the competitive nature of this season’s league campaign. Valentine Nnachi of Namo Sports, Genesis FC duo Destiny Agbede and Joseph Ekeni, Precious Gabriel of Etto FC, Eghosa Augustine of OKuTa, Dynamo’s Terngu Ushafa, Chinedu Uwaribe of Rangers Dynamite, Monday Aluanda of Ine Stars, and Victor IK of Rolly FC all remain in the chasing vehicle.
With 15 matchdays scheduled for the season and nine already completed, the race for the top scorer award remains wide open. While Anthony Ogudu currently holds the advantage, the chasers continue to close in, setting up what promises to be a thrilling final stretch in the League top scorer’s battle.
As teams continue their push for league glory, individual brilliance in front of goal could ultimately prove decisive in the Golden Boot race and in shaping the destiny of their clubs.
Photo: UDStudio