Nigerian youths are currently battling for international recognition at the Ilaji Under Sixteen National Football Tournament put together by the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON), sponsored by the Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort in Oyo State.
The first day of the event was full of emotion, with about 16 teams from across Nigeria in attendance. Immediately after the screening session, action commenced and the opening ceremony witnessed the presence of the Ilaji management team, led by the Chief Operating Officer, Prince Adesina Araoye, who was accompanied by a team of football scouts from Malta.
YSFON, whose technical ability was not in doubt, brought the expected finesse as fans had a field day. The opening ceremony saw the home side, the Ilaji Under Sixteen boys’ team, confronting their Ondo counterparts. The tension-soaked encounter later turned one-sided as the Ilaji team thrashed the Ondo U-16 team 7-0.
The scouts, led by Dr. Justin Fenech – President, Sweiqi United FC, Malta, could not hide their excitement as they gave kudos to the boys from both sides, whose individual talents were amazing. The National Secretary of YSFON, Olorogun Patrick Okpavhuere, and the Technical Director, Abdulgafar Agboola, have assured the fans that the days ahead will witness more intriguing action as all players are on their toes, waiting to be counted amongst the future stars.
The second day of the tournament promises to be more exciting as fans of various teams do not want to be left behind.
On Wednesday, Sanusi Boys will tackle Ekiti at 9:00 am, while the Lagos U-16 team will confront their Oyo counterparts at 10:00 am, and Osun will face Kebbi at 11:00 am.
Katsina will round off the day’s proceedings with Ondo at 2:00 pm. Being a round robin game, the group winners will qualify for the quarterfinals as the drumbeat gets louder.”
The Ilaji Under Sixteen National Football Tournament has not only showcased the talent of Nigerian youths but has also become a platform for them to gain international recognition. With the presence of football scouts from Malta, the stakes have been raised for these young players who are eager to prove themselves.
The opening day of the tournament was filled with excitement and anticipation as teams from different parts of Nigeria competed against each other. The Ilaji team, playing on their home ground, put up an impressive display as they dominated their Ondo counterparts, scoring an impressive 7-0 victory. The scouts from Malta couldn’t hide their excitement as they witnessed the skill and potential displayed by the young players.
The Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) has proven their technical prowess in organizing such a high-level tournament. With their expertise, the matches have been intense and fans have enjoyed every moment. As the tournament progresses, the fans can expect even more thrilling encounters and spectacular performances from the talented young players.
On the second day of the tournament, fans can look forward to more exciting matches. Sanusi Boys will take on Ekiti, while Lagos U-16 team will face their Oyo counterparts. Osun will go head-to-head with Kebbi, and Katsina will round off the day’s proceedings by competing against Ondo. The round-robin format ensures that every team has an opportunity to prove themselves and advance to the quarterfinals.
As the drumbeat gets louder, the pressure mounts for these young players. They understand that this tournament not only provides them with a chance to represent their teams but also offers them the possibility of catching the attention of international scouts. This recognition could be a stepping stone towards professional careers in football, fulfilling their dreams and aspirations.
The Ilaji Under Sixteen National Football Tournament has become a battleground where Nigerian youths fight for international recognition. With each game, they leave no stone unturned, giving their all to showcase their skills, dedication, and passion for the sport. As the tournament progresses, the excitement continues to build, and all eyes remain on these talented young players, awaiting their breakthrough moment.
