The inaugural edition of the Hon. Obinna Onyeocha Football Tournament 2025 came to a thrilling end on Sunday 7, December, at St. Mary’s Primary School, Amifeke, Orlu, Imo State.
The final began with Umueze taking the initiative in the 20th minute when Uchenna Nzerem, calmly converted from the spot after an opponent was penalized for handling the ball inside the box.
The second half resumed with both sides attacking ferociously, but the game’s intensity shifted in the 50th minute when Nnadi Chiamaka, of Umueze was shown a second yellow card and was sent off, leaving his team with ten men. Amike, sensing an opportunity, introduced fresh legs and pressed forward in search of an equalizer, but their wastefulness in front of the goal proved costly.
Against the run of play, Umueze struck late in the 88th minute as Roland Elvis finished off a swift counterattack to seal the victory, stunning Amike fans and securing the title for his side Umueze as they defeated Amike 2–0 to lift the maiden trophy.
At the closing ceremony, individual awards were presented with Chidi Oduenyi, of Amike Community named Best Goalkeeper, Prince Dike, of Umueze Community finishing as Highest Goal Scorer, while Nso Ekweme, of Orlu Community was crowned the Most Valuable Player.
After the awards presentation, Onyeocha, fondly called Onowu, expressed his gratitude. “I am very delighted for the success of the inaugural edition of the competition. I thank God Almighty who made it possible, to my principal the executive governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, I say thank you sir. To the LOC chairman Coach Emeka Okoronkwo ‘Taribo West’ and his crew, the participants and their communities, the referees and members of the press, words can’t express my appreciation to everyone of you.”
He further revealed that six talented players discovered during the tournament will be invited to join the Heartland feeder team, ensuring the competition’s impact extends beyond the final whistle.
For their efforts, Umueze Community received a cash prize of ₦500,000 as champions, Amike Community earned ₦300,000 as runners-up, while Mgbee Community took home ₦200,000 for finishing third.
The tournament lived up to its promise of showcasing grassroots talent, fostering unity, and celebrating community spirit, with Umueze crowned as champions, Amike recognized as gallant challengers, and Mgbee securing a respectable third place, setting a strong foundation for future editions.
