The vibrant and talented football team from Asa Local Government has claimed the title of champions in the inaugural edition of the Sardauna Cup Under-16 football competition.

In the final match, Asa secured victory by defeating Offa Local Government 5-4 on penalties, following a 1-1 draw at the end of regular time.

In the third-place playoff, Oyun automatically advanced to secure the bronze position after Baruten opted not to participate. Baruten had been sanctioned by the organising committee for fielding three overage players during their semi-final clash against Offa.

The sixteen local government area councils in the state took part in the competition.

The final game was preceded by a novelty match between members of the Kwara State Executive council and their counterparts in the House of Assembly.

The well attended match drew dignitaries from across the length and breadth of the state including the Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Elder Kayode Alabi.

The tournament was organized to mark the 65th birthday celebration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq who doubles as the Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate.

Asa took home a N500,000 cash prize, while the second and third-place teams received N300,000 and N200,000, respectively.

Speaking to newsmen after the final match, Chairman of Asa, Shehu Yahaya Ladan said the councils will continue to support the governor’s unwavering support for youth development.

Yahaya highlighted Asa LG’s investment in sports infrastructure, noting that the council is currently developing a sports center.

“As winners of the first Sardauna Football Tournament, I will ensure that the players who represented Asa and made us proud receive life-changing support from the council,” Yahaya concluded.