The second edition of the AAFC U19 Invitational Showcase Tournament has officially kicked off at the Main Bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, bringing together 12 teams in a three-day scouting programme aimed at showcasing some of Nigeria’s most promising young football talents to international scouts and talent representatives.
The tournament, which runs from November 3 to 5, is organised by A.A Football Club as part of activities marking the club’s first anniversary. The initiative has attracted international scouting representatives, including officials from Chelsea Football Club, alongside other European-based talent scouts seeking to identify emerging prospects for potential opportunities abroad.
The three-day competition provides a valuable platform for participating players to demonstrate their technical abilities, tactical awareness and overall potential, with the ultimate objective of creating pathways into international football and professional development opportunities.
The tournament features an exciting fixture schedule, with six matches taking place on each of the opening two days, while two decisive fixtures will bring the competition to a close on November 5.
Speaking on the opening day’s activities, AAFC Chairman, Mr Farouk Abdulrazaq, expressed satisfaction with the organisation of the tournament and the commitment demonstrated by the participating teams.
“We’re very impressed. One thing I have to say is that all the players have shown a lot of commitment, and it’s been good. It’s a great advert for grassroots football in Nigeria. We’re still excited for more to come, and better luck to all the players,” he said.
Also speaking, former Super Eagles midfielder and Chelsea’s Head of Talent Management Scouting, Seyi Olofinjana, commended AAFC for putting together a well-organised scouting initiative, while expressing encouragement over the quality and attitude displayed by the young footballers.
“For the first-year anniversary of AAFC, I think it’s been well organised. For the scouting programme, the boys are showcasing themselves a lot, with good details of what they can do. The boys are doing well. Some are nervous, but we’d like to see more from them,” Olofinjana stated.
The second edition of the AAFC U19 Invitational Showcase Tournament further reinforces the club’s commitment to grassroots football development, youth empowerment and providing emerging Nigerian footballers with meaningful exposure to international scouting networks.
Attention will now turn to the final day on November 5, when the remaining fixtures will be concluded ahead of the AAFC first-anniversary celebration later that evening at Monoliza Event Hall, Area 11, Garki, Abuja.
The anniversary ceremony is expected to attract distinguished personalities, football administrators and other key stakeholders from the Nigerian football community and beyond, providing an opportunity to reflect on AAFC’s journey, celebrate its achievements and recognise its growing contribution to youth football development within its first year of existence.
