The football-loving community of Umuakam Ancient Kingdom in Ideato South Local Government Area of Imo State is gearing up for another thrilling edition of its annual Unity Cup — a grassroots tournament designed to promote friendship, unity, and camaraderie among sons and daughters of the kingdom both at home and in the diaspora.
This year’s edition just like the previous ones is proudly sponsored by High Chief & Lolo John Nwokeji, Dikedioha Nma I of Umuakam Ancient Kingdom, will adopt a knockout format featuring eight teams battling for glory at the iconic Umuakam Community Playground.
The competition, which has grown into a unifying social festival over the years, will see spirited sides from various cities — including Lagos, Abuja, Owerri, Onitsha, Aba, and Rivers — join home-based outfits in a keenly anticipated contest for the prestigious Umuakam Unity Cup.
In the opening game of the tournament, Home team will face Team Abuja on December 29th, 2025 at the Umuakam Community Playground by 4:30pm after an electrifying opening ceremony and the official kick expected to be performed by the donor High Chief John Nwokeji.
The winner between the two teams will progress to the semi final tie while the last quarter final tie will hold between Team Lagos and Team Rivers with the victorious team assured of a place in the semi final also.
FIXTURES FOR THE 2025/2026 UMUAKAM UNITY CUP
GROUP STAGE MATCHES (KNOCKOUT ROUND)
Match 1
📅 Monday, 29th December
🏟 Home Team vs Abuja Team
⏰ 4:30 PM
Match 2
📅 Wednesday, 31st December
🏟 Eze’s Team vs Aba Team
⏰ 9:00 AM
Match 3
📅 Wednesday, 31st December
🏟 Owerri Team vs Onitsha Team
⏰ 4:30 PM
Match 4
📅 Thursday, 1st January
🏟 Lagos Team vs Rivers Team
⏰ 4:30 PM
SEMI-FINALS
Match A
📅 Friday, 2nd January
🏟 Winner Match 1 vs Winner Match 2
⏰ 9:00 AM
Match B
📅 Friday, 2nd January
🏟 Winner Match 3 vs Winner Match 4
⏰ 4:30 PM
THIRD-PLACE MATCH
📅 Saturday, 3rd January
🏟 Loser Match A vs Loser Match B
⏰ 4:30 PM
GRAND FINALE
📅 Sunday, 4th January
🏟 Winner Match A vs Winner Match B
⏰ 4:30 PM
Organizers say this year’s tournament promises vibrant community support, quality football, and renewed togetherness among the people of Umuakam. With elite-level local talents and strong rivalries expected on display, the 2025/2026 edition is set to further strengthen the cultural and social bonds that the Unity Cup represents.
The community eagerly awaits kick-off as Umuakam once again celebrates unity through the beautiful game.
