The much-anticipated Hon. Prince Osinachi Amakor ‘No Vex Unity Cup 2024’ erupted into life on Saturday, November 9, at Bishop Lasbery Girls Secondary School football pitch in Irete, Owerri West LGA, Imo State. Football fans witnessed an impressive debut match where Umuguma (Ward 2) clinched a commanding 3-0 victory over Obinze (Ward 8), setting an exciting tone for the tournament.
Umuguma’s Emma Ekechi opened the scoreboard with a brilliant solo drive down the left flank, firing in a breathtaking shot in the 25th minute. The first half ended with Umuguma in control, leading 1-0. They continued their onslaught in the second half, adding two more goals through Amuzie Eze in the 55th and 78th minutes. Obinze’s efforts to turn the game around were unsuccessful against Umuguma’s strong and relentless defense. Chigozie Franklin of Umuguma earned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award for his outstanding performance.
Hon. Prince Osinachi Amakor, CEO of No Vex Group of Companies and the event’s sponsor, shared his gratitude for the support from notable dignitaries who graced the event. The list included Imo State FA Chairman Barr. Ifeanyi Dike, APC Imo State Chairman Hon. MacDonald Ebere, Imo State Commissioner for Sports Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, Imo State SWAN Chairman Cosmos Chukwuemeka, Heartland FC Technical Director Emmanuel Amuneke (MFR), and other prominent figures in sports, government, and media.
To encourage excellence and sportsmanship, Amakor announced the tournament’s enticing prizes:
Winner: ₦600,000
Runner-Up: ₦400,000
Third Place: ₦300,000
Further incentives have been introduced, courtesy of supporting sponsors. Hon. Francis Uzor, CEO of Orange Room, is funding a ₦50,000 prize for each match day MVP. Additionally, Kun Khalifat FC’s President has donated ₦500,000 to reward the tournament’s best players across various categories, including highest goal scorer, best midfielder, best coach, and even the best supporters club.
As the “No Vex Unity Cup 2024” continues with thrilling matchups, it has quickly become a highlight of the local sporting calendar, giving fans and players alike a chance to experience the joy of competitive football and community unity.
