In a thrilling showcase of talent and determination, Asisat Oshoala Academy clinched victory in the 8th edition of the Football4Girls tournament organized by the Asisat Oshoala Foundation.
The championship match saw Asisat Oshoala Academy secure a hard-fought 2-1 win against Asamokee Queens Football Academy at the Femi Gbajabiamila Mini-Stadium, Abalti Barracks, Ojuelegba, on Monday, December 25th, 2023.
Janet Akekoromowei emerged as the shining star of the tournament, notching both winning goals in the final and claiming the title of the competition’s Most Valuable Player. Akekoromowei’s stellar performance crowned her as the top scorer, netting three crucial goals throughout the tournament.
The journey to victory was marked by a commanding performance from the AOA girls, securing a spot in the finals by defeating Future Stars 99 Academy with an impressive 3-0 scoreline. Kemi Adeboye led the charge with a goal in each half, while Akekoromowei’s late strike in the first half sealed their berth in the final.
This year’s tournament held immense significance, coinciding with the homecoming celebration honoring Asisat Oshoala for her unprecedented sixth African Female Footballer of the Year award. Oshoala’s unparalleled achievement sets her apart as the only player in history to claim the award six times, a testament to her exceptional prowess and dedication to the sport.
Distinguished personalities graced the event, including Uzoma Ezeoke, Executive Director of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries, long-standing sponsors of the event; Ms. Aisha Falode, the current President of the Nigeria Women Football League; esteemed broadcaster Deji Omotoyinbo; the Chairman of NPFL side Sporting Lagos, Godwin Enakhena; among others. Additionally, the former First Lady of Lagos State, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode, sent a representative to partake in the celebration.
The Football4Girls tournament stands as a testament to Asisat Oshoala’s enduring vision to bolster grassroots female football development. This platform provides young female footballers with opportunities to showcase their talent and pursue their aspirations, following in the footsteps of past MVPs like Rasheedat Ajibade (MVP 2016) and Monday Gift (MVP 2017), who have gone on to represent Nigeria at various youth and senior levels, with Rasheedat currently shining at Atletico Madrid Femenino.
