The fourth edition of the Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup delivered a thrilling finale on Wednesday at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, with Irepodun/Ifelodun Youth Team and Ado LFC emerging winners in the boys’ and girls’ categories respectively.
The boys’ final provided high drama, as Oye Local Government side raced to a 3-1 lead by half-time, appearing firmly in control. However, Irepodun/Ifelodun mounted a spirited comeback in the second half, leveling the score at 3-3 and forcing the game into a penalty shootout. In the decisive moments, Irepodun/Ifelodun held their nerve to secure a 6-5 victory and lift the trophy.
In the girls’ category, Ado LFC delivered a composed and dominant performance, defeating Oye LFC 2-0 to clinch the title. Earlier, in the third-place matches, Ado LFC secured victory in the boys’ category, while Irepodun/Ifelodun LFC finished third in the girls’ event.
The final attracted a strong turnout of dignitaries and stakeholders, including Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, alongside several political leaders and government officials who lent support to the grassroots initiative.
Over the years, the Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup has evolved into a key platform for discovering emerging football talents and providing pathways for young athletes across the state.
Organisers expressed appreciation to participating teams, officials, and supporters, describing the 2025 edition as a resounding success and reaffirming their commitment to sustaining the tournament’s impact on grassroots football development.
