Yenagoa, August 15, 2025 — The semi-final lineup is complete at the ongoing Bayelsa Pre-season Football Tournament, with hosts Bayelsa United and their youth side Bayelsa United U-20 securing spots in the final four. The tournament, held in Yenagoa, is designed to sharpen Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) teams ahead of the new season.
After a one-day break, Day Three delivered thrilling action and dramatic turnarounds.
Bayelsa United U-20 Edge EGM FC in Five-Goal Thriller
In the opening match, Bayelsa United U-20 bounced back from their opening defeat to Warri Wolves with a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Eternal Grace Ministry (EGM FC), reigning champions of the Prosperity Cup.
A blistering start saw Kelvin Emmanuel net a brace in the 1st and 28th minutes, while Fuluwa Akpokabowei (aka Solohit) added a third before halftime. EGM FC mounted a spirited second-half comeback, but the “Church Boys” fell short of a draw.
Bayelsa United Edge Kun Khalifat FC
In the day’s final fixture, Bayelsa United edged newly-promoted Kun Khalifat FC of Owerri with a narrow 1–0 win, courtesy of a 9th-minute strike from Wisdom Magbisa. The goal proved decisive, sending the “Prosperity Boys” into the semi-finals.
Group Standings
- Group A: Warri Wolves lead with 6 points from two games; Bayelsa United trail with 3 points
- Group B: Bendel Insurance top the table with 6 points, looking sharp and unbeaten
Semi-final Fixtures – Friday, August 15
- 1:00 PM – Bendel Insurance vs Bayelsa United U-20
- 3:00 PM – Bayelsa United vs Warri Wolves
Venue: Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa
The grand finale is scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025, promising a showdown of NPFL contenders.
Coaches React
Meremu Okara, Head Coach of Bayelsa United, praised his team’s improvement:
“We’re progressing with each game. Today’s performance was a step up from our match against Bendel Insurance.”
Obinna Uzoho, Coach of Kun Khalifat FC, expressed optimism:
“I’m proud of the boys. Their performance today shows clear improvement from our opening fixture.”
