Fortune FA wins seventh JOF U-13 Cup
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Fortune Football Academy won the seventh JOF U-13 Cup after defeating VI-Foot 3-1 on penalties.
- The final match ended goalless in regulation time, highlighting a closely contested game.
- Tournament sponsor JOF Nigeria Limited awarded cash prizes to the top four teams and recognized outstanding individual players.
Fortune Football Academy of Oshodi has clinched the seventh JOF U-13 Cup Football Tournament title, triumphing over FC VI-Foot of Ijora in a dramatic penalty shootout. The final match, held at the University of Lagos Sports Complex, remained deadlocked at 0-0 after regulation time, showcasing the intense competition between the two young teams.
Our young footballers can grow to become world champions someday. Through the U-13 JOF Cup, we are investing in their future by providing them with a structured and organised platform to learn, compete and develop their talents.
Fortune FA ultimately held their nerve during the penalty shootout, securing a 3-1 victory to claim the prestigious grassroots football trophy. The tournament, sponsored by JOF Nigeria Limited, is a key initiative aimed at fostering youth development through sports.
In addition to the championship trophy, JOF Nigeria Limited distributed substantial cash prizes. The champions, Fortune FA, received N750,000, while the runners-up, VI-Foot, were awarded N500,000. Soccer City Football Academy secured third place with N350,000, and Ultimate Football Academy finished fourth, earning N250,000.
I am delighted that every player who participated in this seventh edition played with passion, discipline and the aspirations of a generation. They showcased remarkable talent and determination, earning the admiration of everyone present.
Individual accolades were also presented. Okoroma Destiny of VI-Foot was the tournament's highest goalscorer. Fortune FA's Odesola Odunayo was named the Most Valuable Player, and his teammate Alabi Faruk received the Best Goalkeeper Award, capping off a successful campaign for the academy. Segun Olugboyegun, Chairman of JOF Nigeria Limited, emphasized the company's dedication to nurturing future football stars, calling the tournament a legacy project and an investment in Nigeria's sporting future.
The U-13 JOF Cup Football Tournament is a legacy project that I am deeply passionate about. Our commitment to its continuity remains unwavering.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.