42 teams set to battle for honours at Cohesion Football Tournament Season 5

Posted : 11 November 2023

The organizers of the Cohesion Football Tournament announced on Friday that Season 5 would attract 42 teams from across Lagos and Ogun State.

The grassroots cadet football competition, sponsored by Damilare Obagbemi, is programmed for underserved pre-teens between the ages of 9 and 13.

The draw for the 5th edition of the Cohesion Football Tournament, an annual football competition, was held at Filmhouse Cinemas in Surulere, Lagos.

According to the convener, Obagbemi, the competition seeks to engage 'at-risk' children across different local government areas in Lagos and Ogun State.

"This year's tournament will feature 32 under-13 male teams and, for the very first time, 10 female teams.

"The 2-day competition will take place at the Union Bank Stadium in Surulere on Tuesday and Wednesday, December 19th and 20th.

"The football tournament aims to develop underprivileged children with the core values, knowledge, and skills needed to realize their full potential as leaders of the next generation.

"It is designed to engage these children productively and steer them away from crime, substance abuse, and other social vices," Obagbemi added.

Obagbemi also expressed his excitement about the 5th edition, saying, "We are delighted to witness the growth of this competition from its inception in 2019 with 12 teams to 42 teams, including male and female teams this year.

"We are looking forward to seeing these athletes showcase their talents and skills on the field, as well as learning valuable lessons about teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

"Our aim has always been to create a platform for these children to discover their potentials and pursue their dreams while also staying in school.

"As we come together each year, we are not merely celebrating the beautiful game of football but also weaving a tapestry of hope, community, and opportunity," he said.

Obagbemi added, "Every match played on the field is a step towards a brighter future, steering our children away from the perils of crime, substance abuse, and other social vices.

"So, let our tournament not be seen just as a series of matches but as a symbol of cohesion, where the bonds we forge and the values we uphold transcend the final score.

"Let our shared commitment to these young talents remind us that, through sports, we can build a better world. Together, we inspire, empower, and create lasting change – one goal, kick, and heartfelt belief at a time."

The draws were conducted by football legend Etim Esin, who is popularly known as the 'African Maradona,' in the presence of partners, sponsors, coaches, media, and sports enthusiasts.

The Cohesion Football Tournament, launched in December 2019 with only 12 teams from Mushin and Surulere Local Government Areas, has continued to grow through the years with the support of partners.

The partners include Premier Cool, Apollo, Gamr, Firewood Jollof, Maltina, Dios Dlite, Riquesa, Cowbell Chocolate, Twisco, Nigeria Info, and Femi & The Gang.

42 teams set to battle for honours at Cohesion Football Tournament Season 5

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