Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
Crusaders FC of Peretorugbene and Bayelsa Stars Queens of Yenagoa claimed third-place prizes in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively, at the 2025 Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, known as the Prosperity Cup, held at Samson Siasia Stadium.
In the men’s third-place match, Crusaders FC defeated Bayelsa United Feeders FC 4-1.
Anthony Moses opened the scoring in the 15th minute, followed by Vincent Great’s brace in the 54th and 60th minutes.
Chukwuma sealed the victory with a late goal, while Ebimoghen scored a consolation for Bayelsa United Feeders.
The match was attended by notable figures, including NFF Technical Director Austin Eguavoen, former Bendel Insurance coach Monday Odigie, Akwa United coach Kennedy Boboye, and FIFA agent Paul Ojo, representing Golden Eaglets coach Manu Garba.
In the women’s third-place encounter, Bayelsa Stars Queens edged Bayelsa State College of Nursing Sciences (BYSCON) Queens FC of Tombia 2-1. Excel James scored in the 10th minute, and Ogilogi Annette doubled the lead two minutes later. BYSCON Queens responded with a goal but could not equalize.
Bayelsa State Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff Gowon Toruyouyei, emphasized the government’s commitment to grassroots sports development.
He praised the tournament as a platform for emerging talents, noting its role in launching players to foreign clubs.
Ewhrudjakpo also thanked sponsors, particularly Premium Trust Bank, and urged corporate organizations and oil companies to invest in sports.
Hon. Ebizi Ndiomu-Brown, representing Sagbama Constituency III in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, commended the teams’ performances, describing their efforts as a foundation for future success.
Crusaders FC coach Genesis Seimokumo expressed satisfaction with the third-place finish despite a semi-final exit, crediting the tournament’s organizers for their innovations.
Bayelsa United Feeders coach Dimie Ineididie attributed his team’s loss to inexperience but noted their progress in reaching consecutive semi-finals.
Crusaders FC received ₦2,000,000 for their third-place finish, while Bayelsa United Feeders earned ₦1,000,000 for fourth place. In the women’s category, Bayelsa Stars Queens won ₦1,500,000, and BYSCON Queens received ₦1,000,000.
