NSF 2025 Football Kicks Off with Upsets, Walkovers and Northern Firepower
IKENNE REMO, Ogun – May 19, 2025 | IDNN
The men’s football tournament at the National Sports Festival 2025 began with intensity and unpredictability, as regional rivalries ignited the pitch in Ikenne and Remo. In a round marked by surprise victories and no-shows, the quest for football glory is well underway.
Ebonyi Stuns Hosts, Kano Edges Kwara in Northern Derby
The curtain-raiser saw hosts Ogun State fall 2-1 to a resolute Team Ebonyi, who came in as underdogs but left with the confidence of title contenders. Despite passionate home support and early possession dominance, Ogun failed to convert key chances. Ebonyi, disciplined in midfield and clinical in the box, capitalized with two goals that stunned the Remo Stars Stadium.
In a fiery Northern derby, Team Kano narrowly edged Team Kwara 1-0, showcasing tactical organization and defensive resilience. Kwara, though spirited, lacked the final-third sharpness needed to overturn the deficit.
FCT Unleashes Attack, Lagos Gains Free Points
One of the most emphatic results of the day came from Team FCT, who demolished Team Borno 4-1. FCT’s attacking trio combined speed with precision, overwhelming Borno’s backline in a match that sent a strong message to title hopefuls.
Elsewhere, Team Lagos walked over Team Ondo 3-0, as the latter failed to appear for their fixture. The no-show granted Lagos the points but denied fans a potentially exciting South West clash.
Two Venues, One Goal
The football events are being hosted at two main venues:
-
Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne – staging the men’s matches
-
Babcock University Pitch, Ilishan Remo – home to the women’s football contest, which kicks off on Tuesday.
As the festival progresses, all eyes remain on which teams will rise beyond regional pride to become national champions.
Matchday 1 Summary:
-
Kano 1–0 Kwara
-
Ebonyi 2–1 Ogun
-
FCT 4–1 Borno
-
Lagos 3–0 Ondo (W/O)
