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EDO 2026: FOOTBALL EVENT KICKS OFF ON OPENING DAY AT NIGER DELTA GAMES
The football event of the Niger Delta Games 2026 will officially commence on opening day, thursday, February 20, at the Crescent Sports Club, located on Airport Road, Benin City. Kickoff for the opening fixtures is scheduled for 9:30am.
As one of the marquee events of the Games, football is expected to deliver high-level competition, technical quality, and the unmistakable passion that defines the Niger Delta sporting spirit. Participating states will be aiming to establish early momentum as the race for podium finishes begins.
The opening match will see the Imo State Football Team take on the Bayelsa State Football Team at 9:30am in what promises to be a closely contested encounter.
At 12:00pm, attention shifts to another key fixture as the Delta State Football Team face, 2025 finalists, Akwa Ibom State Football Team. Both sides are widely regarded as strong contenders and will be eager to make a positive statement on opening day.
In the women’s category, host state pride will be on display as the Edo State Women’s Football Team square off against the Akwa Ibom State Women’s Football Team at 9:30am.
The second fixture at 12:00pm features the Bayelsa State Women’s Football Team against the Rivers State Women’s Football Team, a matchup expected to showcase discipline, skill, and competitive intensity.
A Platform for Excellence
Beyond competition, football at the Niger Delta Games serves as a vital platform for youth development, regional unity, and talent discovery.
The Crescent Sports Club, Benin will provide the setting for athletes to demonstrate their abilities, represent their states with pride, and pursue opportunities for advancement in the sport.
Preparations is complete and teams are fully focused, the football games is poised to deliver an exciting and professionally competitive opening day.
“Edo State and Delta State enter the games as defending champions in the men’s and women’s football categories, respectively.”
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