Ondo: Glamour, Excitement as Ondo First Lady Pre-Season Kicks Off in Akure
By: Michael Akintunde
The much-anticipated maiden edition of the Ondo State First Lady Pre-Season Tournament for women football teams kicked off in grand style at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure, amidst glamour and excitement.
In the opening fixture, 2015 FA Cup champions Sunshine Queens FC of Akure began their campaign on a bright note with a 2–0 victory over Bravehearts Ladies of Benin.
After a keenly contested first half that ended goalless, Sunshine Queens broke the deadlock in the second half through Precious Edewor, before Alehiri Ayuba sealed the win with a fine strike late in the game. Despite their defeat, Bravehearts Ladies put up a spirited display and showed great resilience throughout the encounter.
In her remark, the Wife of the Ondo State Governor, Her Excellency Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, commended the leadership of the Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA) under Mr. Divine Ogbonnaya for keying into the developmental policies of the State Government and promoting initiatives that empower the girl child through sports.
She applauded the agency for bringing together women football teams across the country to foster unity, development, and talent discovery in the women’s game.
She was represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor of Ondo state , her excellency Mrs Adelami .
Speaking with journalists after the match, ODSFA Chairman, Mr. Divine Ogbonnaya, described the tournament as an initiative aimed at encouraging the girl child and providing a platform for teams to prepare ahead of future competitions.
According to him, the competition is not just about winning but also about promoting women’s football and aligning with the vision of the Ondo State Government for sports development.
Meanwhile, matches scheduled for today (Monday) will see Fortress Ladies take on Onimarg FC, while Rock Crystal FC battle Sunshine Queens FC in what promises to be another exciting day of football action.
