CitySports Africa has officially flagged off the inaugural edition of the Easter Cup Youth Football Tournament, scheduled for April 18–19, 2025, in Victoria Island, Lagos. Powered by CitySports League, this two day competition will feature 48 teams from across Nigeria, competing in U-9, U-12, and U-15 categories.
During the official draw and press briefing, CEO Shola Opaleye described the tournament as a high-level, development-focused event designed to mirror international youth football competitions. He emphasised the vision of building leadership, resilience, and character in participating players, under the theme:
"I Am a CSL Challenger."
Bamidele Nurudeen, Head of Development, explained the format: 16 teams per age category divided into four groups, with matches progressing through group stages to the finals.
Fans are encouraged to participate online with hashtags #CitySportsEasterCup and #IamaCSLChallenger, while the tournament enjoys backing from partners including Indomie, Twisco, Lagoon Hospitals, Brila Media, and Complete Sports.
Editorial
The launch of the CitySports Easter Cup reflects a crucial step in Nigeria’s sports development landscape. It’s not just about competition it’s about planting seeds for the future. In a nation bursting with young talent but often lacking structured platforms, this tournament arrives as a timely intervention.
What makes this initiative stand out is its intentional design: exposure, community, and character development. It echoes a larger message football isn’t just about goals and trophies. It’s about values, mentorship, and giving kids the platform to dream bigger.
We hope this event evolves into a national fixture one that scouts, clubs, and communities rally behind. Because in nurturing these kids, we’re nurturing the next Osimhens, Oparanozies, and Iwobis.
Did You Know?
- The Easter Cup will feature U-9, U-12, and U-15 teams age groups often neglected in organised youth competitions.
- CitySports Africa was founded in 2019 and has rapidly grown as a leading grassroots sports development platform.
- Victoria Island, Lagos, where the tournament will be held, is a major hub for elite football training centres in Nigeria.
- The round-robin format ensures every team plays multiple matches, allowing more development and assessment time.
- The "I Am a CSL Challenger" theme aims to instil confidence, discipline, and leadership in young athletes on and off the pitch.
