Kwara’s Under‑18 team clinched the President Bola Tinubu Tournament title by defeating Bauchi 8‑7 in a penalty shoot‑out after a goalless regular time. The final, held at Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina, showcased excellent football skills and energetic performances from both sides, but strong defending kept the score level, leading to the tense penalties.
The tournament, organized by the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria, featured 15 states and ran from October 26 in Katsina. In addition to Kwara’s triumph, Bauchi received silver medals, while the host state, Katsina, secured bronze after a narrow victory over Sokoto. Participating teams came from Ondo, Kaduna, Bauchi, Kwara, Kano, Jigawa, Zamfara, Kebbi, Gombe, Sokoto, Yobe, Niger, Kogi, the FCT, and Katsina.
Katsina’s outgoing Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Aliyu Lawal‑Zakari, presented the trophy and gold medals to the Kwara team, praising all participants for their commitment and resilience alongside leaders of the Youth Sports Federation. The President Bola Tinubu Tournament remains a key event in Nigeria’s youth football calendar, offering a platform for young players to showcase their talent and compete at a high level. Its successful conclusion highlights the growing talent and competitiveness of youth football in the country and is expected to encourage greater participation and excellence among Nigeria’s emerging footballers.
Comments are closed for this story.