In a thrilling showdown, Successful Pillars Football Club emerged triumphant in both the Under-17 and Under-13 categories of the 3rd edition of the Victor Ikpeba Football Challenge, held on Saturday.
In the Under-13 category, Successful Pillars FC secured victory against Great Stars FC in a tense penalty shootout, showcasing the determination and skill of the young players.
Read Also: FC Yarmalight Celebrates 15 Years Of Football Excellence
Meanwhile, in the Under-17 class, Successful Pillars FC faced off against Ichofe Wanderers FC, with Pillars’ striker, Edafe Uti, making a significant impact by opening the scoring in the fifth minute.
Despite efforts from Samson Ikiriko of Ichofe Wanderers to level
the scores at 1-1, Successful Pillars FC maintained their lead with goals from Eric Ogun. The final score stood at 4-2, sealing the championship for Successful Pillars FC.
The victorious team, Successful Pillars FC, claimed the champion’s prize money of N250,000, along with the prestigious gold trophy and gold medals. Ichofe Wanderers FC secured the second spot, earning a cash prize of N125,000, a silver trophy, and silver medals.
Lord Mark Football Academy, finishing in third place, received a cash prize of N100,000, and an additional N50,000 from Chief Ibori, a friend of the organizing committee, who announced a generous cash donation for their outstanding performance.
Golden Friends, securing the fourth position, received a cash consolation of N75,000.
In a surprise twist, the Under-13 category garnered significant support from a Dubai-based Nigerian businessman, who announced a generous cash donation of N500,000 for the young talents in the tournament.
Expressing satisfaction with the overall standard of the game, tournament sponsor Victor Ikpeba commended the exceptional skills displayed by players in the Under-13 category.
He congratulated all the winners and pledged support for the further development of the discovered talents in their football journey.
The tournament not only showcased football prowess but also highlighted the commitment to nurturing young talents and fostering the spirit of sportsmanship in Nigerian football.
