Maiden U-19 Nigeria Independent Cup 2025 Opens with Rain Interruption

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The Maiden edition of the Under-19 Nigeria Independent Cup 2025 kicked off in Abuja on Thursday with a blend of excitement, resilience, and unexpected drama, as matches across venues served up goals and talking points for fans and scouts alike.

At the Nyanya Football Pitch, spectators witnessed a thrilling 2-2 draw between Plateau State and Lagos State. Plateau looked in control when Gabriel Bada put them ahead in the 44th minute before David Victor doubled the lead early in the second half. But Lagos refused to give up, launching a spirited fightback.

Abraham Anthony pulled one back in the 63rd minute, and Amir Aliu stunned Plateau with a dramatic equalizer in the 88th minute, ensuring the points were shared in a pulsating contest.

Meanwhile, at the Area 3 Football Pitch, Kebbi State held off a late surge from Imo State to claim a 2-1 victory. Ahmed Aliyu gave Kebbi the perfect start with a 7th-minute opener, followed swiftly by Hayatudeen Haruna’s strike in the 15th minute.

Though Imo struggled for rhythm early on, they clawed their way back into the game and were rewarded when Promise Ani converted an 89th-minute penalty. Kebbi, however, stood firm to seal their first win of the tournament.

The final scheduled game of the day at the Nyanya venue between Kano and Benue failed to reach a conclusion. After 20 minutes of goalless play, a heavy downpour left the pitch waterlogged, forcing both teams to halt the match as conditions made it impossible for the ball to move freely.

Day One of the competition not only highlighted the fighting spirit of the teams but also provided a glimpse of the exciting talents Nigeria’s youth football has to offer.

From the late drama in Nyanya to Kebbi’s early dominance at Area 3, and the weather-induced disruption, the opening day set the tone for a tournament that promises thrills and unpredictability.