CATS Ladies Triumph In Inaugural Girls Play Sports Football Tournament

In a thrilling finale at the FIFA Goal Project, Abuja, on Sunday, September 29, 2024, the Community Action Through Sports (CATS) Ladies of Lagos State claimed the first-ever Girls Play Sports (GPS) Football Tournament title with a 2-1 victory over Plateau United Queens.

The Southern champions, CATS Ladies,
rallied from a goal down to overcome the Northern champions, Plateau United Queens, who had taken the lead in the ninth minute through Agnes Otata.

CATS Ladies’ star, Ebube Anyanwu, was the hero of the day, scoring two quick goals in the 50th and 54th minutes to secure a memorable win. This victory marked a milestone for grassroots women’s football in Nigeria, further elevating the profile of female athletes nationwide.

As champions, CATS Ladies received a cash prize of two million naira, while runners-up Plateau United Queens took home one million naira. Other finalists also received cash rewards for their participation.

Speaking on the tournament’s impact, Honorable Ayo Omidiran, the initiator of the Ayomidiran Foundation, stated, “This success reflects the power of collaboration and our shared commitment to advancing grassroots women’s football and empowering the girl-child through sports.”

CATS Ladies’ head coach, Chinasa Ukandu, praised her team’s resilience, adding, “These girls have shown tremendous determination and heart, and this win is a testament to their hard work.”

The tournament was lauded by dignitaries, including GPS ambassador and Olympic legend Mary Onyali, who said, “This tournament is a game changer for young female athletes across the country, giving them the platform they deserve to excel.”

The event marked a significant step forward in the development of women’s football in Nigeria, as expressed by Dr. Muhammad Sanusi, Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Federation: “This competition lays a strong foundation for the growth of women’s football in Nigeria.”

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