Community Action Through Sports CATS Ladies emerge champions of the inaugural Girls Play Sports Football Tournament with a 2-1 victory over Plateau United Queens at the FIFA Goal Project, Abuja, on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
Northern zone champions, Plateau United Queens took the lead at the ninth minute through Agnes Otata. However, Southern champions CATS Ladies responded with two quick goals from Ebube Anyanwu in the 50th and 54th minutes.
The goals were enough to seal their triumph as the inaugural champions.
As champions, CATS Ladies received a cash prize of two million naira, while runners-up Plateau United Queens received one million naira.
Also, other finalists from the Northern and Southern zones were rewarded with varying cash prizes for their appearances.
Grateful Hon. Ayo Omidiran Dreams Big For Her Girls
Honorable Ayo Omidiran, initiator and founder of the Ayomidiran Foundation expressed her gratitude for the support from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Federal Housing Authority, State Football Associations, and participating teams, stating,
“This success reflects the power of collaboration and our shared commitment to advancing grassroots women’s football and empowering the girl-child through sports.”
Also, the head coach of CATS Ladies, Chinasa Ukandu, celebrated the victory as a landmark achievement for her team.
“These girls have shown tremendous determination and heart, and this win is a testament to their hard work.”
CATS Ladies Emerge Champions: Plaudits For The Organization
Elsewhere, Honorable Oyetunde Ojo, Managing Director of the Federal Housing Authority, praised the organization.
“We are proud to be part of an initiative that empowers young girls through sports and promotes national unity.”
Furthermore, Dr. Muhammad Sanusi, Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Federation, commended the tournament’s significance.
“This competition lays a strong foundation for the growth of women’s football in Nigeria, and we are excited to see its future impact.”
Additionally, Girls Play Sports (GPS) ambassador and Nigerian Olympic legend Mary Onyali lauded the initiative, saying, “This tournament is a game changer for young female athletes across the country, giving them the platform they deserve to excel.”
Dignatories Honours The Girls
Meanwhile, the event was graced by several dignitaries, including Comptroller O. A. Adebakin (FDC, DSM, MNIM, PSC), representing the Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service; Senator Adebayo Adeyeye, Chairman of the Board of Nigerian Ports Authority. Chairman of the NPFL Honorable Gbenga Elegbeleye; NFF Director of Competitions Ruth David; Nigeria Women Football League Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi; NWFL board member Rukayat Alaya; Secretary General of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria Ikenna Okonkwo; and Senator Gbenga Obadara, an APC chieftain from Ogun State.