Five time world champions, the Golden Eaglets, surged into the semi-finals of the football event at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State with a commanding performance. Abdulmuiz Adeleke, who had earlier scored the opener in their 2-1 victory over Edo State, shone once again by netting a brace during Friday’s quarter-final clash against Ebonyi State. The team secured a resounding 5-0 win.

Mohammed Imrana, who contributed to the previous win over Edo with the second goal, found the net again. However, his performance was marred by a red card late in the match. Destiny Samuel and Emmanuel Ochigbo also added their names to the scoresheet, completing a comprehensive victory.

Meanwhile, the Flamingos remain top of Group B after a goalless draw with Lagos State on Thursday. They lead with five points, edging into their last group-stage match against Enugu State, who are yet to earn a point. Delta and Lagos follow closely, each with four points.

In Group A, Osun State sits at the summit with seven points, while Ogun and Edo trail with five and four points respectively.

Editorial

We cannot overstate the significance of youth competitions like the National Sports Festival in cultivating the future of Nigerian football. The Golden Eaglets’ emphatic performance in Ogun is more than just a march toward silverware it is a reaffirmation of the strength and depth within our grassroots system. When young talents like Abdulmuiz Adeleke and Mohammed Imrana deliver on such a grand stage, it signals a promising horizon for Nigerian football.

The beauty of this Eaglets squad lies not only in their ability to win but in how they do it with flair, confidence, and unity. Their 5-0 dismantling of Ebonyi State wasn't merely a result it was a statement of intent. It shows us what can happen when players are nurtured in an environment that prioritises both discipline and creative freedom.

Of course, the road ahead won’t be without its challenges. Imrana’s red card is a reminder that growth also comes through learning and adversity. These young athletes must continue to evolve both in skill and temperament.

Yet, as fans and stakeholders, we must do more than applaud from the sidelines. We must ensure these players are supported with the resources, coaching, and exposure needed to thrive beyond this tournament. Because today’s Eaglets could well become tomorrow’s Super Eagles.

Let us continue to invest in our youth, for they are already proving they’re worth every effort.

Did You Know?

1. Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets are the most successful team in FIFA U-17 World Cup history, having won the title five times.
   


2. The National Sports Festival was first held in 1973 as a means of fostering unity after the Nigerian Civil War.
   


3. Ogun State, the host of the 2025 edition, last hosted the festival in 2006.
   


4. The Flamingos, Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, secured third place at the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup—their best finish yet.
   


5. Many Super Eagles legends, including Nwankwo Kanu and Victor Ikpeba, began their careers by shining at youth tournaments like the National Sports Festival.