Five teams to compete at maiden NPFL youth league finals

Five teams are set to contest for honours in the maiden finals of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Under-17 Youth League — starting on Saturday in Benin City, Edo.

A statement by the organisers of the youth league on Monday said the competing teams are Enugu Rangers, Remo Stars, Rivers United, Katsina United and Plateau United.

According to the statement, the five teams are champions in the zonal playoffs that were rounded off last month.

“We expect the teams to start arriving in Benin City from Thursday but on our part, we have concluded preparation to have a hitch-free national finals,” the statement reads.

Chimaobi Igwillo, Enugu Rangers captain who emerged the most valuable player at the south-east finals after scoring four goals to lead his side to win the trophy, said they will be unstoppable in Benin City.

“We shall respect the opponents but will be decisive towards achieving our goal of becoming the national champions,” Igwillo said.

Meanwhile, the management of Enugu Rangers whose youth team emerged as the south-east champion also said efforts are geared towards winning the national finals.

Basil Obeta, the head coach, said his wards had trained twice daily ahead of the finals and the players’ reaction had been positive.

“I envisage a tough opening game against Katsina United on February 26 but with the quality in my team, I am positive about getting a good result,” Obeta said.

The NPFL Youth League is organised for players aged below 17 years in an effort by the league body to scout talent for the clubs’ senior teams as well as the national Under-17, Under-20 and Under-23 teams and the Super Eagles.