BY ADELU PRAISE DEBORAH

The stage is set for an exciting finale in the 2026 JOF U-13 Football Tournament after VI Foot Ijora and Fortune Football Academy (FA) Oshodi secured impressive victories in their respective semi-final matches at CMS Primary School, Bariga, Lagos.

VI Foot Ijora booked their place in the final with a convincing 3-1 triumph over Soccer City FA Iwaya, demonstrating resilience, tactical discipline, and attacking quality throughout the encounter. In the second semi-final, Fortune FA Oshodi produced a dominant display to defeat Ultimate FA Coker 4-0, sealing their place in the championship match in emphatic fashion.

The results have set up a highly anticipated final between two of the tournament’s standout teams, both of whom have impressed spectators with their consistency, skill, and determination.

Speaking after the semi-final matches, Managing Director of JOF Nigeria Limited’s Transportation Division and Chairman of the JOF U-13 Football Tournament Organising Committee, Mr. Adeyinka Adetunji, expressed satisfaction with the standard of football on display and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to youth development through sports.

“What we have witnessed throughout this competition is a reflection of the immense football talent that exists within our communities. These young players have displayed remarkable skill, discipline, determination, and sportsmanship,” Adetunji said.

“They represent the future of Nigerian football, and they deserve platforms like this to develop, compete, and showcase their abilities.”

Adetunji noted that the tournament forms part of JOF Nigeria Limited’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at empowering young people and promoting community development.

“At JOF Nigeria Limited, we believe that investing in young people is an investment in the future of our nation. This tournament is about more than football; it is about nurturing dreams, building confidence, and creating opportunities for talented youngsters to realise their full potential,” he added.

He also commended the participating teams, coaches, parents, and organisers for their contributions to the success of the competition.

“The support and enthusiasm from coaches, parents, football lovers, and other stakeholders have been exceptional. Their commitment has played a significant role in making this tournament a memorable experience for the players and a valuable platform for grassroots football development.”

Sponsored by JOF Nigeria Limited and organised by the Lagos State Grassroots Football Association, the tournament was established to identify and develop emerging football talents while promoting healthy competition among young athletes.

Organisers have announced that details of the final match and closing ceremony will be unveiled during a press conference scheduled for June 16, 2026, at the JOF Nigeria Limited headquarters in Oregun, Lagos.

With VI Foot Ijora and Fortune FA Oshodi preparing for the ultimate showdown, football fans can look forward to a thrilling finale to a tournament that has celebrated talent, opportunity, and the bright future of Nigerian grassroots football.