Presidents’ Cup: Capital Sportiff tournament moves closer to grand finale

Published By: Ayorinde Oluokun

The Capital Sportiff six-team football tournament delivered another exhilarating day of action on Saturday, December 7, 2024, as Group B teams showcased skill, grit, and determination.

Held at the New Capital International School Sports Arena in Asokoro, Abuja, the tournament has solidified its reputation as a platform for grassroots football excellence and community bonding.

The tournament, organized by Capital Sportiff Sports Club, aims to develop grassroots football, engage youth in sports, and discover emerging talent in Abuja and beyond.

Additionally, it seeks to promote camaraderie and foster community spirit, making football a unifying force for diverse groups.

With a carefully structured format, the six teams are divided into two groups, with the top two from each group advancing to the semi-finals. Now approaching its climax, the grand finale is set for Saturday, December 14, 2024, where the tournament champion will be crowned.

The day opened with Team PU/Rex claiming a narrow 1-0 victory over UGKM FC. The decisive moment came when Amos made a dazzling run to beat the offside trap. Though his initial attempt was saved by the UGKM goalkeeper, the rebound fell kindly, allowing Amos to slot it home with ease.

In the second game, Team Zone 4 FC, Tunduwada secured a vital 1-0 win against UGKM FC. The team’s strong tactical play and a well-timed goal kept them in contention for the finals.

The final match of the day ended in a tense 0-0 draw during regulation time, setting the stage for a penalty shootout. In the shootout, Team PU/Rex emerged victorious with a 7-6 scoreline, thanks to a critical penalty save by goalkeeper Oti Pius and a composed final strike by Ambrose Okosun (Skippo Lala).

With their victories, Team PU/Rex topped Group B and advanced to the finals, where they will face Group A leaders Team AVM/Apugo. Meanwhile, Group B runners-up Team Zone 4 FC will compete against Capital City FC, the Group A runner-up, in the third-place match. Both games will be played on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the New Capital International School Sports Arena.

Prince Leonard Ocheuje, President of Capital Sportiff Sports Club: “This is a great eye-opener. The progress so far has exceeded expectations. The level of commitment and interest is incredible, and the games have been fiercely competitive. It’s not been easy for any team, which is a testament to the quality of the tournament. We’re already considering expanding this into a full-blown annual event. It’s been fantastic, and we’re truly enjoying every moment.”

Oga Vincent, President, Team Zone 4, Tunduwada stated: “I thank God for the success of the game. We all fought hard, and we all won because football has no losers—just one team that comes out on top. Penalty shootouts are a game of luck, and this time, luck wasn’t on our side.”

His colleague, Felix Onyemachi (Karika), Coach, Team Zone 4 reiterated his position: “The game was good, but you can’t win them all. Losing on penalties is tough, but that’s football. Kudos to the organizers for a well-executed tournament. We’ll come back stronger next time.”

Speaking on his heroic display, Oti Pius, Goalkeeper of Team PU/Rex stated that “Saving penalties is always thrilling, and I’m glad I could help my team. I told my teammates to score their shots while I handled the rest. God has been with me in moments like this, and I’m grateful for the victory.”

Though the games didn’t go their way, the UGKM officials were still satisfied with the efforts of their players as echoed by their President, Segun Fiki, President.

“Our team played well. Their fitness and understanding of the game were evident, but football can sometimes be unpredictable. Despite the challenges, we gave it our best.”

Edo Boy, Team Manager, UGKM also shared Fiki’s views.

“We had a good game, but injuries and match fitness issues affected us. We came, we saw, but we didn’t conquer. There’s always next time.”

The Capital Sportiff six-team football tournament delivers another exhilarating day of action on Saturday, December 7, 2024,

Basking in his victory, the triumphant Paul Danjuma Okpo, Coach of Team PU/Rex praised his team and the display of the worthy opponent.

“The teams we faced were strong, and they challenged us at every turn. But we prepared well and are determined to go all the way to win the finals. Respect to all the teams, and we’re looking forward to the final clash.”

With the stage set for the final showdown, fans and supporters eagerly anticipate the culmination of what has been a6 spectacular tournament. The finals between Team PU/Rex and Team AVM/Apugo, alongside the third-place match, promise thrilling football and memorable moments.

The Capital Sportiff six-team football tournament continues to fulfill its objectives of uniting communities, promoting grassroots talent, and fostering a love for football in Nigeria. The grand finale on December 14, 2024, is not to be missed.