By Victor Okoye
Fosla Academy, Abuja, emerged champions in both the male and female categories of the maiden National Schools Football Championship in Abuja, on Monday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the tournament’s final was played at the FIFA Goal Project Pitch at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Goals by Ephraim Moses and Daniel Alilu earned Fosla Academy a 2-1 victory over Brilliant Academy, Toro, Bauchi State, in the boys’ final.
Victor Usman scored a late consolation goal for Brilliant Academy in the keenly contested final.
In the girls’ final, Fosla Academy defeated Government Secondary School, Lugbe, 2-0 to claim the title.
Salamatu Ahmed and Patricia Habila scored the goals that sealed victory for Fosla Academy before a packed crowd.
Parliament International School, Apo, came from behind twice to defeat Divine Mercy School, Asokoro, 3-2 and secure third place.
Kelechi Onyekuru of Parliament International School won the boys’ Most Valuable Player award after scoring the decisive penalty.
Alicia Francisca of Aduvie International School was named the girls’ Most Valuable Player.
Sunday Mark of Divine Mercy School, Asokoro, and Patricia Habila of Fosla Academy won the boys’ and girls’ Golden Boot awards, respectively, with eight goals each.
Nigeria Football Federation Head of Competitions, Ruth David, presented individual awards and trophies on behalf of NFF President Ibrahim Gusau.
Former NFF President and Founder of Fosla Academy, Sani Lulu, attended the ceremony and expressed delight at his team’s outstanding performance.
Lulu commended Kickstart Sports Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Ibrahim Bello, for organising the championship and promoting a high standard of school football. (NAN)
Edited by Joseph Edeh