The impressive Wisdom Eguamwense grabbed the winner as Edo Dynamo defeated Rising Stars of Auchi 1-0 in the final to emerge champions of the maiden Bright Osayi-Samuel U-13 Football Tournament at the Crescent Sports Centre, Irirhi, Benin City, Edo State on Thursday.
Earlier, Rockers FC defeated Ugbowo Bombers 3-0 in the third-place match.
The tourney, sponsored by Fenerbahce and Super Eagles defender, Bright Osayi-Samuel, who hails from Edo State, featured youth teams from the state.
With the win, Dynamo went home with N1m and the giant winners trophy while Eguamwense emerged tournament Golden Boot winner with six goals.
Second-placed Rising Stars got N750,000, Rockers got N500,000 for finishing third, while fourth-placed Ugbowo Bombers got N2500,000.
Blessed Ohaeri of Dynamo was named MVP, Rockers’ Destiny Enomena best goalkeeper; Savour Martins of Edo Young Stars Academy best defender and Efe Omotobo of Spunky Blazers young player.
Austin Ogieriakhi of Edo Dynamo won the coach of the tournament award.
The participating teams got school bags and books for their efforts.
Speaking after the event, Osayi-Samuel’s father, Nelson, commended Edo FA and the teams for a successful event.
“This has shown that given the right atmosphere, Nigerian youths can excel in whatsoever they decide to do. Congratulations to all the teams, we are grateful.”
Over 40 grassroots teams from across the three senatorial districts of Edo State participated in the tournament that lasted for one month.
Some stakeholders at the event include Edo FA boss, Fred Erhunmwunse, Austin Popo and immediate past Edo FA chairman, Dr Aghedo Moses.