In a bid to amplify the fervor of football and foster international camaraderie, the inaugural Coal City International Football Pre-season Tournament is poised to kick off in Enugu State, featuring a lineup of formidable teams from across Africa and beyond. The tournament, organized by Ski-Hi Entertainment, promises an electrifying spectacle as four Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) sides, alongside international heavyweights, converge for a shot at glory and a hefty prize purse of 50 million naira.
The participating Nigerian clubs—Rangers International, Enyimba FC, Kano Pillars, and Remo Stars—are set to clash against formidable foreign contenders, including Gor Mahia of Kenya, FC Kallon from Sierra Leone, Coton FC of Benin, and Esporte Clube Vitoria of Brazil. This diverse array of teams ensures a dynamic and thrilling competition, igniting the passion of football enthusiasts both locally and globally.
Scheduled to commence on August 1, 2024, the tournament will unfold over nine match days, with a total of 15 matches set to captivate fans at the iconic Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, affectionately known as "The Cathedral," boasting a seating capacity of 22,000 spectators. Mr. Ifeanyi Ogbu, CEO of Ski-Hi Entertainment, revealed at a press conference in Enugu that matches will be contested in a Round Robin format, with each team vying for victory in three pivotal encounters.
With a prize pool of 50 million naira at stake, teams will vie fiercely for the coveted title, with the champions clinching the lion's share while the runners-up secure a substantial reward of 10 million naira. Additionally, each participating team will receive 5 million naira per match as appearance fees, underscoring the commitment to recognizing and rewarding their efforts on the field.
Ensuring accessibility for fans, ticket prices have been set at a nominal fee of 500 naira, allowing supporters to witness the thrilling action firsthand and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere within the stadium. The organizers expressed gratitude to the Enugu State government for its unwavering support, highlighting the anticipated economic boon from an influx of over five thousand visitors during the tournament, thereby enriching the local economy and bolstering tourism.
In a bid to uphold the integrity and fairness of the tournament, Ski-Hi Entertainment announced collaboration with FIFA-approved international referees and locally-based officials, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and the smooth conduct of matches. Moreover, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has pledged its support, affirming the tournament's significance in promoting football development and unity within the region.
Addressing attendees, Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu, Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Enugu State, underscored the government's commitment to sports as a catalyst for development and prosperity. He lauded Governor Peter Mba for championing the tournament and pledged continued support from the state, citing investments exceeding 400 million naira towards infrastructure and security measures to ensure a seamless and memorable event.
While anticipation mounts and preparations reach a crescendo, stakeholders, including participating clubs, partners, and media representatives, eagerly await the commencement of the Coal City International Football Pre-season Tournament—a celebration of athleticism, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of football on the global stage.
