Umuosu Clinch Coral Football League Title with 2–0 Win in Afugiri

Umuosu produced their most assured performance when it mattered most, defeating Umuagungolori Obiohuru 2–0 to win the maiden Coral Football League trophy at Williams Memorial School, Afugiri, in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.

Amid colour, passion and strong community turnout, the final lived up to expectations as both sides approached the contest with confidence. Umuagungolori Obiohuru started brightly, pressing high and circulating the ball with purpose in the early minutes, suggesting an early statement of intent.

However, Umuosu gradually weathered the storm and asserted control. The eventual champions tightened their defensive shape, dominated key midfield battles and began to dictate the tempo with maturity and composure befitting a final. Their improved organisation soon translated into attacking clarity.

Two well-worked goals, built patiently and finished with conviction, proved decisive, tilting the contest firmly in Umuosu’s favour and underlining their authority on the day. At the final whistle, Umuosu were confirmed worthy champions, lifting the Coral Football League trophy alongside the star prize of ₦1 million.

Umuagungolori Obiohuru settled for second place and received ₦700,000, while Umuchukwu Umuekwule finished third to claim ₦500,000, rounding off a keenly contested tournament that kept Afugiri alive with excitement throughout its duration.

Speaking before the presentation of medals and prizes, sponsor of the competition, Dr Charles Iheanyi Ukeagu, said the Coral Football League was organised in honour of his late mother, Elder Mrs Margaret Ukeagu. He described the tournament as a celebration of football, unity and shared joy, commending the teams for their discipline and entertaining style of play.

Dr Ukeagu thanked dignitaries who attended the final, including the immediate past Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Engr Chinedum Orji; former ASEPA General Manager, Chief Eze Okwulehie; Mr Obi Onwuzuruike; Mr Emeka Elias; High Chief Enyinnaya Onyekwere; former member representing Umuahia North State Constituency, Chief Kelechi Onuzuruike; founder of Don FM Radio, Mayor Lucky Igbokwe (Don Lulu), as well as other notable guests.

He announced that the Coral Football League would henceforth be an annual event, with plans already underway to increase prize money in future editions. He also expressed satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of players and supporters throughout the competition, noting that the absence of violence or disorder reflected the true spirit of sportsmanship.

Dr Ukeagu further praised the organising committee, officials of the Nigeria Professional League Federation (NPLF), the referees and the match commissioner, Mr Jonathan Ukaegbu, describing the tournament as a symbol of unity, brotherhood and oneness within the Afugiri community.

Decorating the winners alongside High Chief Enyinnaya Onyekwere, Rt Hon Chinedum Orji applauded Umuosu for what he described as “clean and quality goals,” while commending the organisers for their coordination and vision. He pledged continued support for the competition and urged youths to channel their energy into sports and other positive ventures.

Also speaking, President of the Ohuhu Welfare Union Youth Wing, Mr Iheanacho Uchenna, and Mr Collins Utah praised Dr Ukeagu and other contributors for staging a competition that brought excitement, unity and a sense of homecoming to the community during the festive period. They expressed optimism that future editions would grow into a broader and more competitive football spectacle.

Individual brilliance was also rewarded, as Azubike Uchechukwu David emerged Most Valuable Player, Odinma Stephen Iroatunmere won the Best Goalkeeper award, while Ahamefule Chibuike finished as the Highest Goal Scorer of the tournament.

As the sun set on Afugiri, the Coral Football League final delivered more than a champion. It reaffirmed football’s power to unite, entertain and inspire, leaving Umuosu crowned champions and the community eagerly anticipating the next edition.