Umuosu Football Team has won the Coral Football League after defeating Umuagungolori Obiohuru by two goals to nil.
The final match was played at Williams Memorial School in Afugiri, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, with fans from different communities turning out in large numbers.
Umuagungolori Obiohuru started the match strongly, pressing early and moving the ball with confidence.
However, Umuosu soon settled into the game, took control of the midfield and dictated the pace of play.
Umuosu’s improved performance paid off as they scored two well-worked goals to seal a comfortable victory. At the final whistle, Umuosu emerged champions and went home with the trophy and a cash prize of one million naira.
Umuagungolori Obiohuru finished as runners-up and received seven hundred thousand naira, while Umuchukwu Umuekwule took third place and earned five hundred thousand naira.
Before the presentation of prizes, the sponsor of the competition, Dr Charles Iheanyi Ukeagu, explained that the Coral Football League was organised in honour of his late mother, Elder Mrs Margaret Ukeagu. He said the tournament was meant to promote football, unity and happiness in the community.
Dr Ukeagu thanked dignitaries who attended the final, including the immediate past Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Chinedum Orji, and other prominent guests. He announced that the competition would be held every year and promised that prize money would be increased in future editions.
He also praised the peaceful conduct of players and supporters throughout the tournament, as well as the organising committee, match officials, referees and the match commissioner, Mr Ukaegbu Jonathan.
Rt Hon Chinedum Orji congratulated Umuosu for their quality goals and commended the organisers for a well-coordinated event. He encouraged young people to embrace sports as a positive way of life.
Other speakers, including leaders of youth groups in the area, also praised the sponsor and organisers for bringing excitement and unity to Afugiri during the festive period.
Individual awards were also presented. Azubike Uchechukwu David emerged the Most Valuable Player, Odinma Stephen Iroatunmere won the Best Goalkeeper award, while Ahamefule Chibuike finished as the Highest Goal Scorer.
The Coral Football League final ended on a joyful note, as Umuosu celebrated their victory and the Afugiri community looked forward to a bigger and better tournament next year.
