The second edition of the Under-19 Football Tournament, initiated by Enyimba FC Chairman Nwankwo Kanu, kicked off on Friday at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba with three opening-day matches.
Organised by Enyimba Sporting Director Ifeanyi Ekwueme, the tournament aims to discover young football talents for clubs across the region. The competition, which began in 2024, features two centres — Aba and Owerri — with winners from each meeting in the grand finale in Aba.
Six teams are competing in the Aba centre: Enyimba FC U-17, Ngwa United FC, Aba Madrid FC (all from Aba), Petson Academy and Okwu United (from Umuahia), and defending champions Apex Crane FC from Enugu.
In the opening match, Apex Crane FC edged out Enyimba U-17 with a 1-0 victory. The second match saw Aba Madrid FC and Okwu United FC play to a 1-1 draw, while Ngwa United and Petson Academy ended goalless.
Apex Crane coach Isaac Loute, a former Enugu Rangers player, praised the quality of play, saying the tournament is already showing promise in unearthing future stars.
“I was impressed with the level of talent shown in our first match against Enyimba U-17,” Loute said. “This tournament is a great opportunity for youth players to grow, and I expect even more improvement as we progress.”
According to Enyimba FC media, the tournament will resume on June 16 at 9 a.m. at the Enyimba International Stadium.
ok