It was a carnival-like atmosphere at the iconic OSIA City Stadium, Ngor Okpala, as the maiden edition of the Imo Club Owners Association Super League kicked off in grand style.
The 16-team tournament, regarded as the flagship competition of club owners in Imo State, attracted the crème de la crème of the sports world. Among the dignitaries in attendance were former African Footballer of the Year and Super Eagles coach, Emmanuel Amunike; Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha; and the traditional ruler of Okpala Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Obinna Eziakonwa (Asaa I of Okpala Autonomous Community), alongside several other prominent figures.
The colourful opening ceremony featured cultural displays and entertainment, setting the tone for weeks of thrilling football action.
“This is a great moment for grassroots football development in Imo State,” said Coach Emmanuel Amunike. “I’m impressed with the vision of the Club Owners Association. This is how future champions are discovered.”
Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, described the competition as “a new dawn for sports in Imo.” He added, “Governor Hope Uzodinma’s administration is committed to supporting initiatives like this that promote youth engagement, talent development, and peace in our communities.”
High Chief Kachi Atufula, CEO of City Cruz Hotel and Chairman of the Club Owners Association, hailed the massive turnout and promised an exciting tournament. “We are setting a new standard for football in Imo State. This league will produce stars that will shine beyond our borders,” he stated.
The host and CEO of OSIA City Stadium and FC, Hon. Innocent Onwuniko, expressed his delight at hosting the historic event. “It gives me great pride to see Ngor Okpala become the centre of football excellence. OSIA City Stadium is open to nurturing talents and supporting the growth of sports in Imo and beyond,” he said.
High Chief PMC Okeke, CEO of Ave International Football Club, urged teams and officials to show sportsmanship throughout the competition. “This league is not just about winning; it is about building character, friendship and discipline. I encourage all players and officials to be of good behavior during and after the tournament,” he advised.
In the opening match, hosts OSIA FC were held to a 1-1 draw by Ave International FC. In the second game of the day, Giant Berillars edged Captain Marvel FC 2-1 in a pulsating encounter.
The competition continues today with Acquire FC facing Akonye FC in the first game, while Akokwa United lock horns with Amiyi FC in the second fixture. The day’s final clash will see East Coast FC take on Black Salt FC in what promises to be a soccer spectacle under the lights of the OSIA City Stadium.
IFCOA MEDIA.
