JOF Nigeria Honours Rising Football Stars as Fortune FA Secures 7th U-13 Cup Championship
Fortune Football Academy from Oshodi triumphed in the 7th edition of the JOF U-13 Cup Football Tournament by defeating FC VI-Foot Football Academy from Ijora 3-1 in a penalty shootout during an exciting final held at the University of Lagos Sports Centre on Sunday.
Even with a significant downpour that rendered the pitch wet and challenging, the young athletes demonstrated incredible perseverance, talent, and resolve, entertaining a lively audience of fans and notable guests who gathered for the grand finale.
The tightly fought final concluded without any goals after the regular time, but Fortune FA maintained their composure during the penalty shootout to claim the prestigious trophy.
In alignment with its dedication to grassroots football advancement, the sponsors, JOF Nigeria Limited, awarded cash prizes to the top four teams in the tournament. The champions, Fortune FA, were awarded N750,000, while the second-placed FC VI-Foot received N500,000.
Soccer City Football Academy from Iwaya secured third place with a hard-won 1-0 victory over Ultimate Football Academy, which earned them N350,000, while the fourth-placed Ultimate FA was awarded N250,000.
Exceptional individual players were also acknowledged during the closing event. Okoroma Destiny from FC VI-Foot was named the highest goal scorer of the tournament, while Odesola Odunayo from Fortune FA was honored as the Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Additionally, Fortune FA’s goalkeeper Alabi Faruk received the Best Goalkeeper accolade for his outstanding performances throughout the event.
During the closing ceremony, the Chairman of JOF Nigeria Limited, Mr. Segun Olugboyegun, reiterated the company’s devotion to youth football enhancement, referring to the tournament as a vital investment in the future of Nigeria.
“Our young athletes have the potential to become world champions in the future,” he commented.
“The JOF U-13 Cup serves as our investment in their future by offering a well-structured and organized environment where they can learn, compete, and hone their skills.”
Olugboyegun expressed appreciation to all the teams that participated for their dedication and discipline during the tournament.
“I’m thrilled with the efforts these young players have exhibited. They approached every game with zeal, determination, and discipline, showcasing extraordinary talent and giving us optimism for the future of football in Nigeria,” he remarked.
He also acknowledged the coaches, parents, and organizers, particularly the Lagos State Grassroots Football Association, for their commitment to developing young talents.
In addressing corporate partners, financial organizations, insurers, and other guests, Olugboyegun encouraged increased involvement from the private sector in youth development programs.
“I urge everyone present to view this as more than just supporting JOF Nigeria Limited. Together, we can shape the future of our youth and make meaningful contributions to the advancement of Nigerian society,” he stated.
He reassured stakeholders that the competition would persist in the coming years, defining the JOF U-13 Cup as a cherished legacy project for him.
“This tournament represents a legacy initiative that I hold very dear, and we are fully committed to its continuation and enhancement,” he affirmed.
In spite of the unfavorable weather conditions, a remarkable assembly of distinguished guests gathered for the closing ceremony, including Mr. Segun Olugboyegun, the Chairman of JOF Nigeria Limited, along with his wife; former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, Mr. and Mrs. Demola Odeyemi; the Managing Director of Optimus Bank; Ms. Heather Frankle, the Managing Director of JOF Nigeria Limited; Mrs. Chioma Udu from Guaranty Trust Bank; Captain Femi Ibitoye; Hon. Olumide Atungbayila from the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning; as well as a number of other notable attendees.
The tournament showcased a selection of Lagos’ brightest emerging football talents, further highlighting the increasing significance of organized grassroots events in identifying and developing future stars of Nigerian football.
