Nigeria Leagues
Kwara crowned YSFON/Chief of Naval Staff U16 champions, Kaduna clinches bronze
By Dayo Awoniyi
Kwara State emerged victorious at the YSFON/Chief of Naval Staff U16 National Soccer Tournament, edging Enugu State 1-0 in a tightly contested final held at Pitch A of the PCK Stadium in Kaduna.
The victory came after Kwara secured their place in the final by defeating host state Kaduna 5-4 in a tense penalty shootout in the semi-finals, following a goalless draw in regulation time.
Both teams were evenly matched during the semi-final, but it was Kwara who held their nerve from the spot, converting five of their kicks against Kaduna’s four.
In the second semi-final, Enugu State put up a dominant display to defeat Bayelsa 2-0, securing the second spot in the final.
The decisive final match saw the Kwara boys display cohesion, tactical discipline, and resilience, with a lone goal proving enough to secure the prestigious youth title.
In the third-place match, hosts Kaduna State produced a dominant performance to defeat Bayelsa 3-0, delighting their home supporters and earning a well-deserved bronze medal.
The tournament, organized by the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) in partnership with the Nigerian Navy, is a key initiative aimed at identifying and developing grassroots football talent across the country.
Speaking after the final, organizers praised all participating teams for their discipline and competitive spirit, reaffirming the tournament’s significance in shaping the future of Nigerian football.
Kwara’s triumph reinforces the state’s growing reputation as a stronghold of youth football, while Kaduna’s podium finish stresses the talent emerging from the northern region.
