The Nationwide League One (NLO) U19 Youth League began at the OISA Centre in Ngor Okpala, Imo State, yesterday, with an action-packed programme launching young players’ pursuit of the title.
Entertaining start in Imo State
Emmanuel FC and OISA Feeders shared four goals in a 2-2 stalemate, while Abia Warriors Youth Team edged Okpotemba FC Isinweke 1-0.
Akonye FC produced the most emphatic performance at the centre, overcoming White Eagles 6-3 in a nine-goal contest. Heartland Comets also opened their campaign impressively, recording a 3-0 win against Fazeone FC.
League opens across several centres
The 2026 NLO U19 Youth League formally began on Saturday, August 15. Opening-day matches were staged in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Sagamu, Ogun State, and at the Maracana Centre in Lagos.
Action moved to the Bwari Centre in the Federal Capital Territory on Monday, August 17, when the six teams in Group A were involved.
- Abuja Kings FC defeated Starting 11 FC 2-0.
- Footwork FC claimed a 1-0 victory over Zibara FC.
- Sporting Dreams FC beat Daniel Bee 5-2 in a convincing display.
Bwari and Minna line-ups
Thirteen teams are taking part at Bwari, with Great Future Stars again making the journey from Makurdi after competing at the centre last season.
Group B at the venue consists of Conac FC, Beautiful Tours Feeders, Veteran Sports FC, Great Future Stars, RBM Sports Jnr, Calgary FC and Dante FC.
The Minna Centre in Niger State also launched its tournament programme on Monday, with seven teams competing for honours.
Beyond the results, the youth competition is designed to give emerging footballers regular competitive exposure, sharpen their technical skills and support their progress within an organised football structure.
Listed results from the OISA Centre
Ngor Okpala, Imo State, hosted the following fixtures:
- Okpotemba FC Isinweke 0-1 Abia Warriors Youth Team
- Conac FC 3-0 Beautiful Tours Feeders
- Great Future Stars 1-0 Veteran Sports
