By Ogo Clarkson
Successful Pillars FC was crowned champions of 2025 Victor Ikpeba 5-Aside Football Challenge, following a convincing 2–0 victory over Pipeline Dragons FC in the grand final of the tournament held in Warri.
The champions dominated proceedings in the final encounter, displaying tactical discipline and clinical finishing to secure the ₦700,000 top prize, while Pipeline Dragons FC settled for ₦400,000 as runners-up.
In the third-place match, Grace FC put up a scintillating performance, thrashing Aligned FC 6–0 to claim the bronze medal and a cash reward of ₦250,000, while Aligned FC received ₦150,000 for finishing fourth.
This year’s edition of the grassroots competition drew strong interest from Delta State sports stakeholders, who commended the organisation and impact of the tournament on youth development and community sports.
Commander of the 3rd Battalion, Major Mohammed Salman, presented a financial token during the closing ceremony and pledged the support of the Nigerian Army towards the growth of the competition. “We are impressed with the quality of football and the organisation of the finals. We look forward to partnering to promote healthy living and grassroots sports.
The 2026 edition will be hosted at the Army Barracks soccer pitch,” he stated.
1997 African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba (MON), expressed appreciation to the Delta State Sports Commission, led by Chairman Onos Oborewovori, as well as other sports personalities and partners who contributed to the success of the event.
According to Ikpeba, the tournament remains committed to using football as a tool for youth empowerment, healthy living, and grassroots sports development.
The Victor Ikpeba 5-Aside Football Challenge has continued to grow in stature, with organisers promising a bigger and better edition in 2026.
