Jare Olukotun
The atmosphere was electric at UAMC Eleja Primary School, Igbogbo, as football lovers trooped out in their large numbers to witness the grand finale of the Adeboruwa Cup 2025, which ended with Ifeoluwa FC beating Baba Ode team 1 – 0 to emerge and be crowned as champions.
The two teams that emerged as the last two contenders out of the 36 that started the tournament about three months ago, received massive support from their fans that added fun and thrills to the final game. Supporters filled the venue, singing, cheering, and creating a carnival-like atmosphere throughout the match.
This year’s tournament is the 36th edition of the tournament that has been played since the second year that the annual Igbogbo Day started.
Ifeoluwa FC received a golden trophy, medals and N500, 000 as prize money for the winner, while Baba Ode, second place team went home with N300, 000, third placed Agunfoye FC got N200, 000 and fourth team – Back of Model received N100, 000.
Samuel Olowonishaye, Ifeoluwa FC player emerged as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament; Opeyemi Joseph, the Ifeoluwa FC goalie receive the award as the Best Goalkeeper and Odunayo Daniel Oyekanmi of Agunfoye FC emerged as the highest goal scorer with 8 goals.
In attendance at the final match played on Wednesday, were HRM Oba (Barr.) Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, Barr. Ade Ayeni, Vice Chairman, Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA, Odofin Tajudeen Onasanya, the Odofin of Igbogbo, Chief Jelili Oduntan, the Balogun of Igbogbo, Chief Jelili Sanni, Alh. Sherif Jinadu, Chairman, Igbogbo Day Planning Committee, Mr Babatunde Afuwape, IDEA chieftain and Mr Adeoye Obayomi, Chairman, Sports Sub-Committee of the 2025/2026 Igbogbo Day Planning Committee among others.
From moments the match officially kicked off from the first whistle, the competing soccer sides delivered the excitement and energy expected of a highly anticipated local derby final. It was nothing short of a spectacular encounter.
Ifeoluwa FC took the lead in the first half, thanks to a beautiful finish from their number 7, Samuel Olowonishaye, who converted a well-coordinated team move that sent their supporters into wild celebration. Despite several attempts from Baba Ode FC to equalise, Ifeoluwa’s solid defensive organisation kept them at bay.
The match also recorded two yellow cards against Ifeoluwa FC as tension rose in the second half. However, their goalkeeper delivered a heroic performance with several brilliant saves that protected their slim but decisive lead.
As the players lifted the trophy, fans erupted in cheers, celebrating not only the victory but also the spirit of unity, culture, and youth development that the Adeboruwa Cup represents.
The Adeboruwa Cup 2025 final will be remembered for its intense football action, passionate supporters, cultural pride, and the continued commitment of the Igbogbo community to grassroots sports development.
Mr Adeoye Obayomi, Chairman, Igbogbo Day Sports Sub ,- Committee speaking with THE IMPACT after the finals said that the tournament was a big success due to the dedication of members and the support received.
“Thank you. This year’s Oba Adeboruwa Cup has been a fantastic one. The dedication of the committee members, the chiefs, and the Oba of Igbogbo made everything smooth. We also received strong support from the Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA, Omo’ba Olalekan Ahmed Aroyewun. He has been behind us in every area, and his support made it easier for the committee to organise a beautiful and outstanding competition.
“We witnessed fantastic football, great skill displays, discipline, and remarkable composure from teams across Igbogbo and the neighbouring communities. It was truly a wonderful edition, and I believe there is still room for improvement.”
He also said that the pre – tournament engagement with stakeholders helped in the three months that the tournament lasted.
“This year stands out because, before the competition began, we brought together the teams, players, coaches, referees, and the general public to educate them on the rules of the game. Once everyone understood the rules clearly, it became easier to manage the matches, and everyone complied. That contributed to the success of this year’s tournament greatly,” he added.
