By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The inaugural National Schools Football Championship reaches a thrilling conclusion on Monday at the FIFA Goal Project Pitch, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, with FOSLA Academy aiming to complete a remarkable double in both the boys’ and girls’ categories.
FOSLA Academy’s boys will face Brilliant Academy of Toro, Bauchi State, in the final, a repeat of the opening match of the national finals, which the Abuja-based side won convincingly.
The North Central champions booked their place in the final with an emphatic 8-1 demolition of Divine Mercy School, Asokoro, in Sunday’s first semi-final. Felix Tanko Bulus starred with a brace as FOSLA produced another dominant display.
Brilliant Academy, champions of the North East, secured their place in the title clash after defeating Parliament International School, Apo, 5-3 in an entertaining second semi-final, with Ibrahim Haussaini scoring twice for the Bauchi side.
Before the final, Divine Mercy School, Asokoro, and Parliament International School, Apo, will battle for third place.
FOSLA Academy are also on course for a memorable sweep of the championship as their girls’ team takes on Government Secondary School, Lugbe, in the final, with the Abuja school hoping to lift both trophies in the maiden edition of the competition.
Beyond the team honours, outstanding individual performers will also be recognised with awards for the Most Valuable Player, Highest Goal Scorer and Best Goalkeeper.
President and Founder of the KickStart Sports Foundation, organisers of the championship, said the competition was established to discover young football talents while revitalising grassroots football through education. He expressed optimism that the annual tournament would continue to provide a platform for nurturing future stars and strengthening school sports across the country.
The finals are expected to bring the curtain down on a successful maiden edition that has showcased emerging talents from schools across Nigeria while reaffirming the importance of grassroots football development.
