The inaugural Coach Aliyu Zubairu U13 Kiddies Tournament has hit a pivotal point, with teams preparing to showcase their best players in the semi-finals scheduled for Friday, January 10, 2025.
Featuring 20 teams and over 200 young footballers, this tournament, which offered free registration, was organized to honor the Flying Eagles and Elkanemi Warriors head coach, Aliyu Zubairu. It has also become a vital platform for unearthing football talent at the grassroots level.
With the stakes at an all-time high, the tournament is now down to the final four. Barca Kiddies, a formidable team from Eiyenkorin in Asa local government of Kwara State, will face Future Stars FA in the first semi-final, while Kingshood FC will go head-to-head with Dickalo Boys for a spot in the final, all taking place at the Kwara Football Academy Pitch.
These matches are set to be thrilling displays of talent, providing young players from Kwara State the chance to shine and demonstrate their skills.
In a display of his characteristic generosity, Coach Aliyu Zubairu has chosen to provide complete sets of jerseys to all teams that have advanced to the quarterfinals. He believes that this initiative will motivate them to excel in future competitions, enhance their morale, and elevate their performance levels, all while contributing to the development of grassroots football.
Additionally, plans have been finalized to award impressive prizes to the tournament winner, as well as to exceptional players and officials on the final day.
Cash prizes will be awarded to both the champion and the runners-up, alongside accolades for the Most Valuable Player, Highest Goalscorer, outstanding Goalkeeper, and Best Coach of the tournament.
