Local News
JOF U-13 Cup Grand Finale Holds June 28 As Lagos’ Emerging Football Talents Take Centre Stage
The stage is set for the grand finale of the 7th edition of the JOF U-13 Cup Football Tournament as some of Lagos State’s brightest young football talents prepare to battle for honours on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Sports Arena.
The championship match will feature VI Foot of Ijora against Fortune Football Academy of Oshodi at 3:00 p.m.. At the same time, Soccer City FA of Iwaya will take on Ultimate Football Academy of Coker Aguda in the third-place playoff scheduled for 1:00 p.m.
Since its commencement on February 6, 2026, the tournament has provided a platform for youth football development across Lagos State, bringing together 64 football clubs representing the 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). A total of 84 matches has been played across three venues, showcasing the immense talent, passion and potential that exist at the grassroots level.
Organised by the Lagos State Grassroots Football Association and sponsored by JOF Nigeria Limited, the annual competition continues to play a significant role in identifying and nurturing future football stars while promoting values such as discipline, teamwork, leadership and sportsmanship among young participants.
Speaking ahead of the final, Chairman of the JOF U-13 Football Tournament Committee, Mr. Adeyinka Adetunji, expressed satisfaction with the success of this year’s competition and the quality of football displayed throughout the tournament.
“This year’s edition has been the loudest and most highly anticipated showcase of Lagos’ youngest stars. The JOF U-13 competition has once again spotlighted talented grassroots footballers across the state,” Adetunji stated.
He noted that the tournament has become an important avenue for talent discovery, providing young players with opportunities to gain exposure before coaches, scouts and football development stakeholders.
The JOF U-13 Cup has grown steadily over the years to become one of the most respected grassroots football competitions in Lagos State, reflecting a shared commitment to youth empowerment and sports development.
The tournament also highlights the importance of private-sector participation in grassroots sports. Through its sponsorship, JOF Nigeria Limited continues to invest in the development of young people by creating opportunities for aspiring footballers to pursue their dreams through structured competition.
This year’s edition has received strong support from corporate partners, including First Bank Plc, Nestlé Plc, Nigerian Breweries Plc and Custodian Investment Plc, further demonstrating growing confidence in grassroots football as a catalyst for talent development and social impact.
Organisers have announced attractive prizes for the champions, runners-up and third-place team, while outstanding individual performers will also be recognised with special awards.
The closing ceremony is expected to attract a distinguished gathering of sports administrators, former Nigerian internationals, corporate executives, football enthusiasts and community leaders. Among the special guests expected at the event are the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of JOF Nigeria Limited, Dr. Olusegun Olugboyegun, and his wife, Mrs. Bola Olugboyegun.
As the competition reaches its climax, all eyes will be on the young footballers who have demonstrated exceptional talent and determination throughout the tournament. For many of them, the JOF U-13 Cup represents not just a competition, but the beginning of a promising football journe
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