History was made in Benin City on Sunday as Egor Local Government Area lifted the inaugural Benin Unity Cup after defeating Ovia North East Local Government Area 3–1 on penalties at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
Neither side found the breakthrough during regulation time, as the final remained scoreless following a tightly fought contest defined by organisation, determination, and cautious tactical play. The deadlock forced the match into a shootout, where Egor displayed superior calm to seal the title.
The Benin Unity Cup brought together the seven local government areas of Edo South in a competition designed to strengthen unity, encourage sportsmanship, and showcase community pride through football. Egor’s triumph etched their name into history as the first winners of the championship.
Earlier, the third-place match delivered its own dose of drama. Oredo I and Oredo II were locked at 1–1 after full time, before Oredo I converted five penalties to Oredo II’s three to secure third position.
During the closing ceremony, tournament sponsor Senator Imasuen explained that the competition was created to engage youths, grow grassroots football, and identify promising talents within Edo South. He assured fans and participants that the event would return in 2026 in a bigger and more refined format.
He added that the initiative represents hope and opportunity for young footballers, with a vision of grooming players capable of excelling at both state and national levels.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Fred Newton Erhunmwunse, revealed that over 35 outstanding players had already been discovered during the tournament and would be supported with professional development to enhance their careers.
In his remarks, coordinator of the Benin Unity Cup and former Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Orobosa Omo-Ojo, pledged improvements in organisation and competitiveness for subsequent editions.
At the end of the competition, Egor Local Government Area received N1 million as champions. Ovia North East Local Government Area collected N700,000 as runners-up, Oredo I earned N500,000 for finishing third, while the fourth-placed team was awarded N250,000.
