Benin Unity Cup kicks off in style

… as Ovia North-East, Ikpoba-Okha battle to opening day stalemate

The maiden edition of the Benin Unity Cup, sponsored by Senator Neda Imasuen, officially kicked off on Thursday in Benin with a colourful ceremony that drew top sports administrators, football stakeholders, and grassroots enthusiasts.

The kickoff ceremony was followed by the first match of the tournament, where Ovia North-East and Ikpoba-Okha played out a cagey 0–0 draw at the Crescent Sports Club, Irhirhi.

Both sides showcased tactical organisation, intensity, and glimpses of individual brilliance, but neither team could find the breakthrough despite promising chances.

The draw sets the tone for what promises to be a competitive and talent-rich tournament, with scouts already keeping close watch on standout performers.

In his remarks, the tournament sponsor, Senator Neda Imasuen, appreciated participating teams and officials for embracing the initiative. 

He explained that the Unity Cup was founded to discover, nurture, and create pathways for grassroots footballers across Edo South.

He revealed that scouts from other parts of Nigeria and possibly abroad will attend live matches during the tournament.

Senator Imasuen encouraged all players to give their best, emphasising discipline, fair play, and sportsmanship as the core values of the competition.

According to him, the competition will serve as a foundation for producing national and international stars in the near future.

Addressing the crowd, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, applauded Senator Imasuen for investing in grassroots football.

He described the competition as a timely platform for youth development in Edo State.

Enabulele announced that talent scouts from the Sports Commission will closely monitor players throughout the tournament, with promising talents having the opportunity to earn a place at Bendel Insurance FC.

He further appealed to individuals and corporate bodies to extend similar support to other sporting disciplines, stressing that Edo State is home to many gifted athletes outside football who are yet to be discovered.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Edo Football Association, Fred Newton Erhunmwunse, expressed delight at the start of the tournament, noting that it is the long-awaited opportunity to fish out raw talents across Edo South.

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