By Umar Muhammed, Lafia
Visiting Team Kwara shocked the home crowd at the Lafia City Stadium with a 4-2 comeback victory over Team Nasarawa in the opening game of the 40th Ramat Cup International Tournament.
The annual competition, organised by the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) in memory of late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Mohammed, has been a breeding ground for football talent for six decades.
Team Nasarawa started strong, dominating possession and taking a 2-1 lead into halftime through quick passes and aggressive pressing. But the second half told a different story as Team Kwara regrouped, tightened their defence, and struck three unanswered goals to seal a stunning win.
National Technical Director of YSFON, Abdulgafar Agboola, said the decision to bring the tournament to Nasarawa after two decades in Kano was part of efforts to spread the event nationwide. “We derive joy seeing these young lads play. That’s what we’ve been doing for 60 years,” he said.
Nasarawa YSFON Chairman, Suleiman Bako Usman, thanked the federation for the hosting rights and praised Governor Abdullahi Sule for his support. “Sports is a unifying factor, and bringing under-16 teams to Nasarawa shows we are one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria,” he added.
With 13 states already on the ground and more expected, the 40th edition promises fierce competition, thrilling football, and a celebration of youth talent.