The third edition of the D’Royal Off-Season Football Competition is set to kick off on Saturday, August 2nd, at the Akure Township Stadium in Ondo State, Nigeria. This much-anticipated tournament, themed “Battle of the Boots, No Risk it, No Biscuits,” promises to be a thrilling showcase of football talent as sixteen teams compete fiercely for the coveted championship title. The competition has already generated considerable excitement with an initial pool of 22 teams participating in a rigorous elimination series, further underscoring the high level of competition expected in the main draw. This year’s tournament builds on the success of previous editions, solidifying its position as a prominent platform for emerging football stars in the region.
The road to the final sixteen began with a five-day elimination series held at St Peter’s Unity School in Akure, concluding on July 16th. Twenty-two teams battled intensely for a place in the main draw, with Weli Weli FC and the host team, Victory Lions FC, successfully securing their spots alongside fourteen other qualified teams. The elimination series served not only as a qualifying round but also as a preview of the talent and competitive spirit that will be on display throughout the tournament. The intense competition during the qualifying stage has heightened anticipation for the main event, promising a captivating display of skill and athleticism.
The D’Royal Off-Season Football Competition serves as a crucial platform for nurturing and showcasing young football talent within the Akure area. The competition draws in numerous football scouts looking to discover the next generation of football stars, offering a unique opportunity for these aspiring athletes to gain recognition and potentially advance their careers. The tournament’s impact extends beyond the field, fostering community engagement and providing a positive outlet for local youths. The event has become a significant sporting spectacle in the region, attracting a growing audience and contributing to the development of football at the grassroots level.
The tournament is generously sponsored by Matthew Olaniboji, a native of Ondo State, and supported by the Bet9ja Foundation. Their commitment to youth development and the growth of football in the region is instrumental in making this competition a reality. The substantial prize money and individual awards further incentivize the participating teams and players, adding to the intensity and prestige of the competition. The sponsors’ investment not only supports the tournament’s logistics but also contributes to the development of local talent and the overall growth of the sport.
Substantial prize money awaits the winning teams, with ₦700,000 awarded to the champions, ₦350,000 to the first runner-up, and ₦150,000 to the second runner-up. Individual awards, including the Golden Glove for the Best Goalkeeper, the Golden Boot for the Highest Goal Scorer, Best Coach, and Most Valuable Player (MVP), recognize outstanding individual performances. In addition to these significant cash prizes, numerous consolation prizes and souvenirs will be distributed to all participating teams, ensuring that every player leaves with a memento of their involvement in the tournament. The generous prize structure underscores the organizers’ commitment to recognizing and rewarding talent and sportsmanship.
With the conclusion of the draw, which has divided the sixteen qualified teams into four groups of four, the stage is set for the “Battle of the Boots” to commence. Football enthusiasts and scouts alike eagerly await the unfolding drama and the emergence of promising new talent. The tournament promises to be a captivating showcase of skill, determination, and teamwork, culminating in the crowning of a new champion on August 2nd. The meticulously planned format, combined with the high level of talent and the palpable excitement surrounding the event, guarantees a memorable tournament for players, spectators, and the entire community.
