Yenagoa—Bayelsa State commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali says he is optimistic that one of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots tournaments christened the Prosperity Cup will soon become a breeding ground for future generations of football stars in the country.
Igali who made this known in an interview said that the tournament has lived up to its expectation, as the games played in the competition have exposed some young raw talents in the state.
The commissioner noted that the increase in the number of participating teams was a testament to the acceptance of the tournament by Bayelsans, describing the competition as “African biggest grassroots tournament.”
While commending the four semi-finalists, the former Olympic gold medalist asserted that he is hopeful to see a keenly contested encounter going into the final, stating that he is satisfied with the commitment and passion of the players.
He explained that with the level of talents, he has seen since the beginning of the tournament, he has no doubt in his mind that the current set of players in the competition would replace current players in the youth teams and the Super Eagles.
Igali thanked Governor Douye Diri and his deputy senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo for giving youths the platform to exhibit their talents to the world, maintaining that the talents discovered would be supported to stardom.
He equally appreciated the organizers for the yearly improvement in the tournament, especially the quality of organization and competitiveness witnessed in the tournament.
Meanwhile, semi-final action will return this weekend at the Samson Siasia Stadium.
The first semi-final on Saturday will see De Grace FC of Yenagoa battle Dream Boys FC of Odi at 3 pm, while on Sunday hard fighting Agbere FC will square up with Crusaders Feeders FC of Peretorugbene by 3 pm.
The final of the competition is scheduled to take place on the 30th of July, 2023 at the Samson Siasia stadium Governor Senator Douye Diri would declare the tournament closed.