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Fortune Football Academy of Oshodi emerged champions of the 7th edition of the JOF U-13 Cup Football Tournament after defeating VI-Foot Football Academy of Ijora 3-1 on penalties in a thrilling final played at the University of Lagos Sports Centre on Sunday.
Despite a heavy downpour that left the pitch waterlogged, the young footballers displayed remarkable resilience, skill and determination, thrilling an enthusiastic crowd of spectators and distinguished guests who turned out for the grand finale.
The keenly contested final ended in a goalless draw after regulation time before Fortune FA held their nerve in the penalty shootout to lift the coveted trophy.
As part of its commitment to grassroots football development, sponsors JOF Nigeria Limited rewarded the tournament’s top four teams with cash prizes. Champions Fortune FA received N750, 000, while runners-up VI-Foot earned N500,000.
Earlier in the day, Soccer City Football Academy of Iwaya claimed third place with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ultimate Football Academy, taking home N350,000, while fourth-placed Ultimate FA received N250,000.
Outstanding individual performers were also recognised at the closing ceremony. Okoroma Destiny of VI-Foot finished as the tournament’s highest goal scorer, while Odesola Odunayo of Fortune FA was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP). Fortune FA goalkeeper Alabi Faruk received the Best Goalkeeper award following his impressive performances throughout the competition.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Chairman of JOF Nigeria Limited, Mr. Segun Olugboyegun, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to youth football development, describing the tournament as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future.
“Our young footballers can grow to become world champions someday,” he said. “The JOF U-13 Cup is our way of investing in their future by providing a structured and organised platform where they can learn, compete and develop their talents.”
Olugboyegun praised all the participating teams for their commitment and discipline throughout the competition.
“I am delighted with what these young players have demonstrated. They played every match with passion, determination and discipline, showcasing exceptional talent and giving us hope for the future of Nigerian football,” he added.
He also commended the coaches, parents and organisers, particularly the Lagos State Grassroots Football Association, for their dedication to nurturing young talents.
Addressing business partners, financial institutions, insurers and other invited guests, Olugboyegun urged greater private sector participation in youth development initiatives.
“I encourage everyone here to see this beyond supporting JOF Nigeria Limited. Together, we can influence the future of our children and contribute meaningfully to the development of Nigerian society,” he said.
He assured stakeholders that the competition would continue in the years ahead, describing the JOF U-13 Cup as a legacy project close to his heart.
“This tournament is a legacy project that I am deeply passionate about, and we remain fully committed to sustaining and improving it,” he said.
Despite the inclement weather, the closing ceremony attracted an impressive gathering of dignitaries, including the Chairman of JOF Nigeria Limited, Mr. Segun Olugboyegun, and his wife; former Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. and Mrs. Demola Odeyemi; the Managing Director of Optimus Bank; the Managing Director of JOF Nigeria Limited, Ms. Heather Frankle; Mrs. Chioma Udu of Guaranty Trust Bank; Captain Femi Ibitoye; Hon. Olumide Atungbayila of the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning; and several other prominent guests.
The tournament, which featured some of Lagos’ most promising young football talents, once again underscored the growing importance of structured grassroots competitions in discovering and nurturing the next generation of Nigerian football stars.
