Lagos is about to witness something special. The Taiwo Afolabi U-17 Cup is back for its 10th edition, and this year it's bigger than ever with 56 teams ready to compete.
The Lagos State Grassroots Soccer Association has assembled quite a lineup. We're talking 32 boys' teams and 24 girls' teams, making this one of the largest youth tournaments in Lagos' grassroots calendar.
Here's where it gets interesting for the young players. The prize money is nothing to sneeze at. Winners walk away with ₦400,000 and a trophy, while second place takes home ₦300,000. Third place earns ₦200,000, and even fourth place gets ₦100,000. That's serious money at grassroots level.
Where and When It All Happens
The tournament kicks off with preliminary matches at two venues. Teams will battle it out at the Ojo Oniyun Sports Centre in Ebute Metta and the Anthony Mini Stadium in Gbagada.
Mark your calendars for May 2, 2026. That's when the grand finale goes down at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan. Even better, tournament sponsor Dr. Taiwo Afolabi has promised to attend the final after 10 years of backing this competition.
A Proven Talent Factory
This tournament isn't just about the here and now. It's got a track record of producing top talent that punters should keep an eye on for future betting opportunities.
Afuka Abu, the LSGSA Assistant Secretary, puts it best. "This tournament has consistently provided young players with the structure, exposure and discipline needed to progress to higher levels," he explained.
The proof is in the pudding. Former Golden Eaglets captain Samson Tijani now plays for Dukla Prague. Soliu Afolabi made it to Slovan Liberec. Chijioke Light represented Nigeria at the WAFU Championship and Africa Women Cup of Nations. Ebenezer Ojo is currently playing professionally in Norway.
SIFAX Group, through its Corporate Social Responsibility program, continues to sponsor the competition. Oliver Omajuwa, their Deputy Director of Strategy and Operations, summed up their mission perfectly: "Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not."
With 56 teams competing and a history of producing professional players, this tournament is worth watching. You never know which young star might emerge as the next big thing in Nigerian football.
