Ore Bombers from Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo state have emerged champions of the maiden Governor Aiyedatiwa Cup, tagged O’datiwa U-17 Football Competition, held at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.
The tournament featured 36 teams drawn from the 18 Local Government Areas of Ondo State, with two teams representing each council area.
In a thrilling final, Ore Bombers defeated Rolawe FC of Akure North 4–3 on penalties after regulation time ended goalless. Rolawe FC finished as first runners-up.
Both sides displayed outstanding football artistry to the admiration of dignitaries and fans, but resolute defending and missed opportunities ensured the match ended 0–0 after 90 minutes
Earlier, in the third-place match, Ondo East Young Stars claimed the bronze medal after defeating Afolabi Iyantan FC 4–2 on penalties, following a 1–1 draw in regulation time.
Speaking after the final, Head Coach of Ore Bombers, Tajudeen Olayinka, expressed delight over the victory, describing the journey from the preliminary stage to the final as tough and competitive.
He appreciated the Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for initiating the age-grade tournament through the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development. Olayinka also appealed for the competition to be sustained annually to serve as a platform for discovering young talents who can progress to Sunshine Stars U-19, the senior team, and eventually pursue professional careers abroad.
Rolawe FC Head Coach, Kehinde Musa, said he was not disappointed with the result, noting that cup finals can go either way.
“We gave our best, but it just wasn’t our day. We’ve identified some areas to improve on and will go back to the drawing board,” he said.
He commended the governor and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development for organising the competition, expressing hope that it will continue as a viable avenue to discover future football stars for Ondo State and Nigeria
Individual awards medals and trophies such as the best goalkeeper,best coach of the tournament and most valuable player was awarded to deserving players.