Host team, River Park FC, kicked off the first edition of the River Park Football Club Tournament, holding in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, in spectacular fashion on Saturday, making a bold statement with a dominant 6-2 thrashing of Elite FC.
Playing on home turf at the River Park Field, Cluster 3, River Park Estate in Abuja, the hosts put on a clinical attacking masterclass to secure three points and firmly establish themselves as the team to beat in Group A.
The opening match, which kicked off at 4:00 pm, lived up to its billing as the host team, a registered club that has been in existence for over eight years, dominated the encounter.
It was a dream start for Riverpark FC as star forward, Mayor, bagged a brace – scored two goals – and was named Man of the Match.
Michael Udeh (Micah), Ifeanyi Eze, Terngu Martin Mzembah, and JAY added the other goals to seal the emphatic win for Riverpark FC.
Elite FC got their consolation goals through Emmanuel Ezekiele and Daniel Chinedu.
The encounter saw five yellow cards issued – three to River Park FC and two to Elite FC, according to the official match report filed by the Match Commissioner, Shedrach Owolabi.
Prior to the opening match, the chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Tobby Obiefuna, noted that the tournament, designed to be held annually, was initiated to foster football passion, improve physical well-being and connect soccer enthusiasts across River Park City and neighbouring areas.
He said, “Our core objectives are to promote physical fitness, celebrate a shared love for the game and build strong bonds among football enthusiasts both within and outside River Park City.”
He explained that inspired by the high caliber of experienced players within their ranks, the organisers opted for a competitive 10-a-side format, featuring eight exceptional teams drawn into two groups.
Besides River Park FC and Elite FC, the other teams in Group A are Zealfield FA and Gazebo FC. Group B comprises Titan FC, Avengers FC, Cyclick FC and CRD FC.
The tournament, which will end on November 8, 2026 promises top standards, with the LOC guaranteeing excellent facilities and top CAF-licensed match officials, backed by generous sponsors.
Obiefuna assured, “As chairman of the LOC, I am confident that this tournament will be a top-notch, successful and memorable event for everyone involved.” l
He revealed that the tournament sponsors include Ave Aqua, Baft Homes, Shedzy Laundry Services, Sabi Vendor, Gabus, Ano Sports and Paulo Homes Limited.
