The 8th edition of the Ibro-Peckham Marlians Football Championship is set to commence in early November 2025, with 32 grassroots teams vying for glory in Ifo, Ogun State. This year’s tournament, organised by the Ifo Football Council, promises to showcase the best of local talent and community spirit. Matches will take place at the Nawarudeen Primary School playing ground in Olose Ifo, the tournament’s traditional venue.
The competition will feature 63 matches, divided into eight groups of four teams each. The group stage is scheduled to begin in the first week of November, with the grand finale and closing ceremony planned for February 2026. The champions will receive a cash prize of £200 (approximately ₦400,000), while the runners-up will earn £100 (around ₦200,000).
A notable absence this year is the defending champions, Juvenile FC, who will not participate in the tournament. Their absence opens the door for a new champion to emerge and adds an element of unpredictability to the competition.
The final draw ceremony, held on October 9, 2025, at the Quality Event Center in Okenla, Ifo, brought together football stakeholders, coaches, referees, journalists, and team representatives. The event was attended by notable figures such as Raufu S.I, Odelana Phillips, Boluwaji Victor Bavis, Odelabu Love, and Kola Olojede, who expressed their support for grassroots football development in the region.
Editorial
The Ibro-Peckham Marlians Cup has become a cornerstone of grassroots football in Ogun State, providing young players with a platform to showcase their talents and aspire to greater heights. The tournament’s growth over the past eight editions reflects the increasing recognition of the importance of community-based sports development.
While the absence of Juvenile FC, the defending champions, is noteworthy, it underscores the dynamic nature of grassroots football, where new teams continually rise to challenge the status quo. This year’s competition is an opportunity for emerging clubs to make their mark and for scouts to discover the next generation of football stars.
The organisers’ commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting sportsmanship is commendable. By focusing on inclusivity and community engagement, the Marlians Cup not only entertains but also contributes to the holistic development of youth in the region.
As the tournament kicks off, it is essential for all players, coaches, fans, and sponsors to support and uphold the values that make grassroots football a vital part of Nigeria’s sporting landscape. The Ibro-Peckham Marlians Cup is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of passion, perseverance, and the power of sport to unite communities.
Did You Know?
- The Ibro-Peckham Marlians Cup is the largest grassroots football tournament in Ogun State, attracting teams from various regions.
- The tournament has been held annually since 2018, with each edition featuring over 60 matches.
- The champions of the Marlians Cup receive a cash prize, while the runners-up also earn a monetary award.
- The competition serves as a platform for young players to gain exposure and attract the attention of scouts from higher leagues.
- The Marlians Cup has contributed to the development of several players who have gone on to play professionally in Nigeria and abroad.
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