Joe
Yenagoa is set to be the epicenter of Nigerian football as the Governor Douye Diri Pre-season Football Tournament kicks off on Monday, August 12, 2024 peaknews.ng reports.
The event, taking place at the Samson Siasia Stadium, promises high-stakes competition with eight top-tier teams vying for the championship and the top prize.
The tournament, organized by the Bayelsa State Government in partnership with the Bayelsa State Football Association and Red Sapphire, features some of the most prominent teams in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL). Participating teams include Abia Warriors FC, Bendel Insurance FC, Enyimba International FC, Kwara United, Rivers United, Sunshine Stars, and local favorites Bayelsa United. The lineup is completed by the 2023 winners of the grassroots Prosperity Cup, Krusaders Feeders of Ekeremor, Bayelsa State.
This pre-season event is designed not only to foster stronger relationships among the teams but also to serve as vital preparation ahead of the 2024/2025 NPFL season. Coaches will have the opportunity to scout new talent and fine-tune their squads in a competitive environment.
Spotlight on the Coaches
The tournament brings together some of Nigeria’s most respected coaches, each with their own unique achievements and strategies.
Ladan Bosso: A veteran in Nigerian football, Bosso returns for a second stint with Bayelsa United, aiming to build on his past successes and make a strong impression in this tournament.
Imama Amapakabo: Known for leading Enugu Rangers to an NPFL title in 2016, Amapakabo is now at the helm of Abia Warriors and is set to challenge for the trophy in Yenagoa.
Finidi George: The legendary former international and new coach of Rivers United, George will be looking to assert his dominance in this pre-season tournament.
Mohammed Baba Ganaru: A coach with a rich history, including leading Kano Pillars to three consecutive NPFL titles, Ganaru will now look to make his mark with Akwa United.
Monday Odigie: The man who led Bendel Insurance back to the top flight, Odigie will be relying on his familiarity with Yenagoa to drive his team to success.
Kenedy Boboye: After a successful stint with Plateau United, Boboye is now determined to prove his mettle with his new team in this prestigious tournament.
Kabir Dogo: Bringing a wealth of experience, Dogo, now leading Kwara United, is poised to create an upset and guide his team to victory.
Genesis Suomokumo: The underdog of the tournament, Suomokumo has already made a name for himself in Bayelsa’s grassroots football scene. With Krusaders Selected, he aims to challenge the established teams and make a name on the national stage.
The tournament begins Monday with the first matches, and the final showdown is scheduled for Sunday, August 18th. As Yenagoa buzzes with anticipation, football fans across Nigeria will be watching closely to see which team emerges as the champion of this inaugural event.
