The Embassy of the State of Israel in Nigeria, in collaboration with the Daniel Amokachi Foundation, has organized a football tournament in the Federal Capital Territory aimed at developing young talent and fostering unity. The maiden edition ended on Sunday at the LEA Primary School pitch, Wuse Zone 6, in commemoration of Moshe “Jerry” Beit Halevi, former Israeli professional footballer, and first coach in Nigeria from 1961 to 1962.
The tournament saw indeed thrilling matches from teams across all six Area Councils of FCT. Winning the competition after beating Team Life Camp 3-0, Team Gwarimpa was crowned champions and won a trophy with a cash prize of N1 million. The first runner-up, Team Life Camp, received N500,000, while all other teams that participated received N500,000 each as consolation to further reinforce the event’s theme of ensuring talent discovery.
The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, said the tournament was beyond a competition, describing it as a celebration of friendship, shared history, and strengthening ties between Israel and Nigeria. He noted that football had the power to unite communities and praised Daniel Amokachi for his commitment to the initiative. Freeman also expressed hope that the tournament would open the door to other joint sports programs between the two countries.
Special guest at the event, Chairman of Nigerian Premier League Football Gbenga Elegbeleye, said it was an important event in developing football at the grassroots. He promised that league coaches will cooperate with him to select outstanding talents from future editions of the championship.
Daniel Amokachi, a.k.a. “The Bull,” emphasized that the tournament emanated from street football and was created to nurture hitherto hidden potentials, stating that “football is found in the ghetto.” He thanked the Israeli embassy for its support and explained that the competition, which may soon be held annually, could spread over other areas of the country.
