The 2024 Obong Isong Isang Memorial Academies Championship kicked off on November 2 at Uyo Township Stadium with a thrilling match that highlighted not only the talents on the pitch but also the importance of education for young athletes as passed in the message of the special guest.
Organized by the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, the tournament honours the late Obong Isong Isang who was a legendary footballer and astute sports administrator.
In a hard-fought opening game, Immortality FC narrowly defeated NNS Jubilee Academy 6-5 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, advancing to the next round in the competition, which includes nineteen academies and runs until November 9. Despite the intense competition, the focus quickly turned to Lady Barrister Ime Isang, wife of the late Obong Isong Isang, whose message centered on the value of education alongside football.
Speaking at the event, Lady Ime Isang encouraged young players to pursue their academic goals as earnestly as their athletic dreams. “I want to thank the Akwa Ibom State Football Association for deeming it fit to title this championship in memory of my husband, Late Obong Isong Isang,” she said. “My husband started playing football at a very early age. I am happy that this competition is for the young ones, and I want to encourage club owners, stakeholders, and football enthusiasts to support them in pursuing both education and sports.”
Lady Ime emphasized that her late husband’s legacy demonstrates that success in sports does not preclude professional achievement in other fields. She reflected on how he excelled as both a pharmacist and a footballer, a balance she hopes young players today can achieve: “The fact that they are playing does not mean they cannot excel academically or professionally. My husband was a pharmacist and reached the peak of his profession while also being a footballer. So I want to encourage parents and young players that they can do both and excel.”
The opening match was a close contest, with Immortality FC’s Ekemini Michael scoring in the 10th minute, only for NNS Jubilee Academy’s Agbaka Edu to equalize in the 60th. Immortality FC ultimately emerged victorious in the shootout.
POST MATCH COMMENTS
Coach of the winning team, Ubong James, said at the post-match interview: “It was an epic game. Let me thank the Akwa Ibom State Football Association for hosting this championship in honour of the Late Obong Isong Isang. In my pre-match interview, I said we were very prepared for this match, and so even when NNS Jubilee Academy leveled the score, I was confident my boys would win on penalties because we practiced it two days ago. So we are happy to win and progress to the next round.”
Coach Harry Uranta expressed disappointment over some missed calls in the first half but commended the FA’s efforts, promising a stronger comeback in future games. He stated, “For me, this game would have ended in the first half. I must confess the referee missed some incidents, and so as underdogs, we feel we would have been victorious if this were given. That notwithstanding, I must commend the Akwa Ibom State FA for organizing the championship. We are looking forward to participating in future championships.”
Player of the Match Ekemini Michael shared his excitement: “I am so excited to be named Player of the Match. I am glad that my team Immortality FC has won. Going forward, as a fan of Manchester United, I hope to be there one day.”
Captain of NNS Jubilee, Donald Donald, displayed impressive defensive skills but unfortunately bowed out of the championship after the shootout loss. Reflecting on the game, he said, “It was a wonderful game. I want to thank my teammates for a great performance despite the loss. Penalty kick is a no man’s game, and so we are out, but I am grateful for the outing here.”
