Chrisland wins DOA Soccer Challenge 2026 in Lagos

Chrisland School defended their crown at the Daniel Oreoluwa Adebiyi (DOA) Foundation Soccer Challenge 2026 after defeating Faith Academy 2-1 in a thrilling final at the Chrisland College Sports Ground in Idimu, Lagos.

With the victory, Chrisland retained the title after also emerging champion in the 2025 edition of the annual grassroots soccer tournament.

Organized in memory of the late Daniel Oreoluwa Adebiyi, a talented young footballer and Chrisland alumnus, the competition saw eight schools take part in a celebration of youth football, sportsmanship and talent development.

Faith Academy finished in second place, while Supreme Education Foundation took third place after an impressive outing in the one-day tournament.

Speaking after the final, the CEO of the DOA Foundation, Dr. Mike Adebiyi, reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to expanding the tournament and creating greater opportunities for young footballers across Nigeria.

“Our wish is for this competition to continue every year and for the best player to receive rewarding awards. Ultimately, we want to send the MVP of the tournament to a football academy abroad because that was Daniel Oreoluwa Adebiyi’s dream before he passed away,” he said.

He also expressed his gratitude to the Chrisland Group of Schools for their continued support, while acknowledging Nigerian football legend Ifeanyi Udeze and remembering the late Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai who had been a regular supporter of the tournament.

Adebiyi revealed that the foundation plans to expand the competition nationwide, with each state eventually hosting its own edition before a national championship is introduced.

Former Super Eagles defender, Ifeanyi Udeze, praised the initiative, describing the grassroots competitions as vital to discovering the next generation of Nigerian football stars.

“This is where we all start. You never know who will be the next Kanu Nwankwo, Jay-Jay Okocha, Celestine Babayaro or Taribo West. We don’t have enough tournaments like this, and that’s why I’m happy. It gives me hope that Nigeria will return to grassroots football,” he said.

Chrisland Director of Schools, Sports and Broader Curriculum Eric Van Der Merwe described the tournament as a significant community project that continues to honor Daniel’s legacy while helping his family cope with their loss.

“We will continue to support this tournament each year because it has special meaning for Daniel’s family. It reminds us that sport is more than winning trophies, it is about community, memories and providing opportunities for young people,” he said.

The National President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Isaiah Benjamin, represented by the Secretary of the association, Femi Amusan, commended the organizers for their commitment to the development of grassroots sports, describing football as a powerful tool for youth empowerment and national unity.

“Football remains one of the most powerful unifying forces in the world. Regardless of our origins, beliefs or social status, the game unites us with a shared sense of purpose and belonging. Every pass, tackle, save and goal reflects discipline, teamwork, perseverance and determination, qualities that are equally essential for success in life,” said Amusan on behalf of the SWAN president.

Meanwhile, 16-year-old Demilade Osho was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament. The Year 12 student praised the organizers and said the competition had strengthened his determination to pursue a career in professional football while also inspiring him to help other young talents achieve their dreams.