From Emmanuel Ogoigbe, Warri
The highly anticipated first-ever Delta State 5-A-Side All Stars Football Tournament has officially begun, with the draws taking place at the Africa 4 Peace Games Village, Ugolo near Osubi, in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.
The tournament, organized by the Nigeria Mini Football Association, Delta State Chapter, will feature seven teams drawn into two groups: A and B.
Group A will consist of Chevron All Stars, Dads United, Men to Boys, and Ex-Players, while Group B includes Cornerlux, All Stars International, and Housing Complex.
The competition promises to be an exciting spectacle and will kick off on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the Mini Artificial Pitch of the Africa for Peace Games Village, with the final scheduled to take place on Friday, February 14, 2025, coinciding with Valentine’s Day.
Speaking during the draw, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, Chairman of the Nigeria Mini Football Association, Delta State Chapter, expressed his excitement about the tournament, which is being powered by the Africa for Peace Games Village.
He urged participating teams to demonstrate sportsmanship both on and off the field, emphasizing that sports fosters unity and camaraderie.
Mulade also praised the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his ongoing infrastructural development across the state.
He encouraged stakeholders in the sports industry to use their influence to promote Delta State and motivate the governor to continue his support for the sector.
Mr. Clarkson Ogo, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, alongside Committee Secretary Mike Ogborodi, further clarified that the tournament is exclusively for players aged 45 years and above. Ogo highlighted that Delta State is home to the largest number of 5-A-Side teams in Nigeria, with a focus on veterans’ football.
In addition, Ogo announced that the prize money for the inaugural edition of the tournament is an impressive 5 Million Naira, adding to the excitement surrounding the event.
The tournament’s grand finale will be graced by several former Super Eagles players, including Victor Ikpeba, Victor Agali, Ifeanyi Ekweme, and Peter Rufai, who will be in attendance to witness the culmination of what is set to be a thrilling competition.
With the first match set to kick off soon, sports enthusiasts across Delta State are eagerly looking forward to a week of exciting football action and camaraderie.
End