Rivers United triumphed over Katsina United, 4-2 on Saturday March 2, to clinch the 2024 Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL Youth League.
The final match played in Edo, Benin City lived up to expectation as the two U-17 sides locked horns for the crown of the best Youth team in Nigeria.
However, after a series of exchange of football artistries, Rivers United broke the deadlock in the 29th minute through Seiyefa Jackson.
The euphoria of the goal was shortlived as Aliyu Abass restored parity for Katsina United U-17 seven minutes later.
The match ended 1-1 at the break.
The resumption of the second half saw the tenacity of Rivers United to double the lead.
Their persistence came to bear as David Benjamin restored the lead to them before Agha George added to the score to boost Rivers United advantage.
Katsina United trailing behind with a two goals deficit, forged ahead in an attempt to halve the deficit.
They fired from a cylinder, deploying all their arsenal which paved way as Usman Abdullahi’s strike found the back of the net.
But, Rivers United stamped their authority as David Benjamin got a brace in the 85th minute to seal the victory for his team.
It was a basket of goals showcasing talents abound in the country as joy filled the atmosphere with smiles beaming on the faces of all the Rivers United supporters.
Rivers United’s roadmap to the final was not without hurdles as they garnered 10 points,with victories against Remo Stars U-17, Katsina United, and Rangers International including playing a stalemate against Plateau United.
River United Seiyefa Jackson emerged as highest goal scorer at the tournament scoring four goals.
Also, Oscar Ozornwafor was awarded as the most valuable player of the tournament.
The NPFL Youth League is however a platform for the upbringing and discovery of new talents in football,in a bid to catch them young and help to develop the game in the country.