Nigeria's U17 Women's Team Makes Statement Start in FIFA World Cup

Nigeria's campaign in the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup in the Dominican Republic kicked off in style, with a convincing 4-1 victory over New Zealand. The Nigerian side dominated the match, thanks to goals from:

•⁠  ⁠Shakirat Moshood (2')

•⁠  ⁠Taiwo Adegoke (13')

•⁠  ⁠Faridat Abdulwahab (28')

•⁠  ⁠Taiwo Afolabi (55')

New Zealand's Hannah Saxon scored a consolation goal in the 60th minute.

This win marks the second consecutive victory over New Zealand in the tournament, following Coach Bankole Olowookere's side's 4-0 triumph in the 2022 group stage. Notably, current team captain Taiwo Afolabi, who won Player of the Match, also netted in that previous encounter.

Next up for Nigeria is a clash with Ecuador, who impressed with a 2-0 win over host nation Dominican Republic.

MOB UNITY CUP 2ND EDITION: Organizers Declare Readiness

Ekiti State is abuzz with excitement as the organizers of the MOB Unity Cup have announced their readiness for the second edition, slated to kick off in the first week of November.

This year's tournament promises to be bigger and better, with teams from the five senatorial districts of the state participating. The districts include Irepodun/Ifelodun LG, Ado Local Government, Ijero Local Government, Ekiti West LG, and Efon LG.

To ensure a seamless selection process, organizers have scheduled visits to each local government, starting on Monday, October 21, for screening.

According to the organizers, huge prizes are in store for participating teams and the eventual winners.

Last year's edition saw Mob Queens emerge victorious in the female category, while Mob Boys triumphed over Are Oloworemo of Ado Ekiti in the boys' finals.

“We are committed to promoting grassroots football and providing a platform for young talents to shine, This year's tournament promises to be thrilling, and we invite football enthusiasts to join us in discovering the next generation of football stars." According to a member of the organizing committee. 

The MOB Unity Cup has become a highly anticipated event in Ekiti State's sports calendar, offering opportunities for young players to showcase their skills and potentially secure spots in top-tier teams.

YEMI OSHE FOUNDATION FOOTBALL CUP: COPDEM, ILE ONA REACH SEMIFINALS

The excitement continues to build in the Yemi Oshe Foundation Football Cup 2nd Edition as two teams have booked their spots in the semifinals. Copdem FC and Ile Ona FC emerged victorious in their quarterfinal matches, securing their places in the next round.

In a thrilling encounter, Copdem FC drew 2-2 with Golden FC, but ultimately won 4-2 in a penalty shootout. The match lived up to its billing, with both teams displaying skill and determination.

Ile Ona FC, on the other hand, dominated Dynamo FC, winning 3-0 to seal their semifinal berth. The team's impressive performance demonstrated their intent to go all the way in the competition.

With Copdem FC (Ado Local Government) and Ile Ona FC (Irepodun/Ifelodun) already in the semifinals, the remaining quarterfinal matches are eagerly anticipated.

UPCOMING QUARTERFINALS MATCHES

•⁠  ⁠Delight FC vs Bawa FC - 2:30 PM(October 9)

•⁠  ⁠Shalom FC vs Whitehorse FC -3:45 PM (October 9)

The winners of these matches will join Copdem FC and Ile Ona FC in the semifinals, setting the stage for an intense battle for a place in the finals.

The Yemi Oshe Foundation Football Cup continues to showcase the best of Ekiti State's football talent, promoting grassroots development and community engagement.

YEMI OSHE FOUNDATION FOOTBALL CUP: 2ND EDITION HEATS UP

The Yemi Oshe Foundation Football Cup's second edition continues to make waves in the community, leveraging soccer as a tool to empower and support local youth.

The upcoming matches, scheduled for Saturday, October 5th, at Eyemote School in Iyin Ekiti, promise thrilling encounters:

- Ile Ona FC vs 11 Lions

- DFK FC vs White Horse

- Focus FC vs Shalom FC

- New Boys Warriors vs Copdem FC

This initiative, founded by Yemi Oshe, aims to harness the power of football to positively impact the lives of young Nigerians. By providing a platform for healthy competition, skill development, and teamwork, the foundation seeks to:

- Promote youth development through sports

- Foster community engagement and social cohesion

- Identify and nurture talented young players

- Encourage education and personal growth

"The Yemi Oshe Foundation is committed to empowering our youth through football," said one of the organizers. "We believe that sports can transform lives, and we're dedicated to creating opportunities for these talented young individuals."

The tournament has garnered significant attention and support from local stakeholders, with many praising the foundation's efforts to address social issues and promote positive change.

Tournament Details:

- Date: Saturday, October 5th

- Venue: Eyemote School, Iyin Ekiti

FACOMS SOCCER ACADEMY WINS OBA JUSTICE ADEMOLA AJAKAIYE U-13 FOOTBALL COMPETITION (5TH YEAR REMEMBRANCE

 

Facoms Soccer Academy triumphed in the prestigious Oba Justice Ademola Ajakaiye U-13 Football Competition 5th Year Remembrance, which honors the legacy of an icon in Ekiti State football.

The first and second team kicked off yesterday, led by His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeola Ajakaiye (Oyinyo Saye Uyi III). In a tightly contested final, Facoms Soccer Academy faced Sporting Wolves of Oye Ekiti. The match ended 1-0 in favor of Facoms, with the decisive goal scored within the first 4 minutes of the game.

Regent Jackie Adeola Ajakaiye Okarevu, representing the Ajakaiye family, expressed admiration for the tournament’s role in discovering new football talent. She emphasized the family’s commitment to ensuring the tournament becomes a continuous event, with even greater family support in future editions. "We are proud of what we have achieved, especially as one of our own is currently at Manchester City Academy. The tournament will continue to foster upcoming talents," she stated.

Coach Femi Popoola of Facoms Soccer Academy, a key family representative, was also acknowledged for his contribution to the tournament. Regent Ajakaiye affirmed, "Coach Femi knows what our family stands for in terms of supporting football and charity. Facoms' victory is not just for the team but for the entire Ajakaiye family."

The tournament's organizing committee, led by Ekiti’s chief coach, Anjorin Kehinde Jojoma, praised both the Ajakaiye family and Facoms Soccer Academy for their efforts in making the tournament a huge success. The event was also graced by Prince Adewole Ajakaiye, the Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, and the Oluyin of Iyin Ekiti, among other dignitaries.

Coach Femi Popoola reflected on the legacy of the late Oba Ajakaiye, emphasizing the late king’s dedication to football in Ekiti State and Nigeria. "The late Kabiyesi supported over 25 students on scholarships and even sponsored me to obtain my professional coaching certificate six years ago. His commitment to developing football talent remains a source of inspiration to us all," Popoola said.

Since the passing of Oba Ajakaiye, Regent Jackie Adeola Ajakaiye has sponsored three children on scholarships, while the Ajakaiye Boys (Facoms) have supported over 10 students with JAMB and WAEC exams under the leadership of her. The just-concluded competition saw another student sponsored for the upcoming academic year.

The teams went home with different new set of jersey customized with Ajakaiye under 13 inscribed on it for match use, also the semi final teams went home with cash prices for coming. 

The tournament recognized outstanding performances with several awards:

Top Scorer: Fatoyinbo of Facoms VOA Feeders (7 goals)

Goal of the Tournament: Odeyemi Ojo

Best Player: Solomon Onyeka (Sporting Wolves)

Best Goalkeeper: Obalusi Victor (Facoms)

Youngest Player: Toluwani Ifeoluwa (7 years old, VOA FC Iyin)

Intelligent Coach: Seddorf of Lion's Gate Ido

Best Coach: Coach Adeolu

Best Fans: Ige Akinyemi and Sunday Elegelu

Committee of the year: Mrs Ajala Irepodun ifelodun 

Special thanks were extended to the supporters of this year’s event, including Ambassador Radio Station, Mellajay Water, Jaru Foundation, VOA Foundation, De-Light Football Club, and Eyemote School, SUNTEX PHARMACY Ado Ekit, Captain Adeshina Adeomi, Mr olaifa contributions, along with those of the late Oba’s children and the Oluyin of Iyin, made the tournament a resounding success.

Looking ahead, the tournament will return next year with eight teams, playing in a league format over three months, continuing the tradition of showcasing Ekiti’s rising football stars.

Sincerely,

Popoola Adefemi

CEO, Facoms Soccer Academy

Ajakaiye cup 2024 .

Facoms Soccer Academy, Sporting Wolves Set for Thrilling Final Showdown in Late Oba Justice Ademola Ajakaiye Under 13 Competition

The stage is set for an electrifying finale in the Late Oba Justice Ademola Ajakaiye Under 13 Football Competition, as Facoms Soccer Academy and Sporting Wolves clash tomorrow Friday at Eyemote School, Iyin Ekiti, at 3 pm.

After a thrilling series of matches involving 24 teams, the competition has been narrowed down to the final two contenders. 

The organizers, Facoms Board, have worked tirelessly to ensure the tournament's success, honoring the legacy of the late Oba Justice Ademola Ajakaiye.

In a significant development, 18 talented players will be randomly selected to form an Under 13 team, which will represent the state in future competitions. Coach Anjorin Kehinde, Former Ekiti United Head Coach, will oversee their training every weekend.

Tomorrow's final promises to be an exciting encounter, with medals and awards awaiting the best coach, players, fans, and dignitaries. The ceremony will also commemorate the 5th anniversary of the late royal father's passing.

According to the competition's organizing committee, celebrating Oba Ajakaiye's legacy is a must. "We pray for the children and the family's continued support, as we honor Baba's memory."

Football enthusiasts can catch the live stream of the match on Facoms Soccer Academy's Facebook page, while Ambassador Radio Station will provide live audio commentary on their Facebook page and mobile app.

Match Details:

- Date: 20/09/2024 (Tomorrow)

- Time: 3 pm

- Venue: Eyemote School, Iyin Ekiti

- Live Stream: Facoms Soccer Academy Facebook page

- Live Audio: Ambassador Radio Station Facebook page and mobile app

Lookman Leads the Charge: Super Eagles Win Big in AFCON Qualifier

The Super Eagles of Nigeria kicked off their AFCON qualifying campaign on a triumphant note, In a resounding 3-0 win, dominating Benin Republic from start to finish. The match, which began at a sluggish pace, saw the Eagles gradually assert their control, culminating in a convincing victory.

As the half-time whistle approached, Ademola Lookman, fresh from his nomination for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, broke the deadlock with a sublime goal in the 47th minute. This marked the beginning of a masterclass performance from the Nigerian forward, who would go on to score his second goal of the game, sealing the win and cementing his status as a top contender for African Best Player of the Year.

Furthermore, the second half saw a revamped Nigerian team, with Victor Osimhen, who has been making headlines for various reasons, got his goal, courtesy of a brilliant cross from Ndidi, before and after finding the back of the net, received widespread admiration from fans.

Notably, Interim Manager Austin Eguaveon's tactical switch to a style of play that worked wonders in the last AFCON proved to be a masterstroke. The team's desire to win, coupled with a hint of revenge against Benin Republic, who had defeated Nigeria 2-1 in a FIFA World Cup qualification match, drove the Eagles to victory.

While it's still early days in the qualifying campaign, this win sets the tone for the remaining five games. Consequently, the Super Eagles will face Rwanda on Tuesday at 2 pm, looking to build on this momentum and secure their spot in the AFCON tournament.

Match Details:

- Nigeria 3, Benin Republic 0

- Goals: Ademola Lookman (47', 83'), Victor Osimhen (78')

- Next Match: Nigeria vs. Rwanda, Tuesday, 2 pm

Photo Credit: SafariSports