Okuta FC Wins 2nd Bright Osayi U-13 Tournament as Osayi-Samuel Confirms Fenerbahçe Exit

Posted : 03 July 2025

Okuta FC has been crowned champions of the 2nd Bright Osayi U-13 Football Tournament, securing a 1-0 victory over Sanco City FC in a tightly contested final to clinch the title and a ₦1 million cash prize.

Sanco City FC earned ₦700,000 for their runner-up finish, while Nano FC claimed third place and ₦500,000 after defeating Delight FC 2-0 in the bronze medal match.

The event, initiated and sponsored by Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel, drew praise from participants, coaches, and the football community. Osayi-Samuel, who was present for the final, expressed his delight at the growth of the competition and the quality of talent on display.

“The whole setup was amazing. I missed the first edition, so I made sure to be here this time,” he said. “After seeing how organised and fantastic it was today, my aim now is to make it bigger and bigger.”

He acknowledged the efforts of Edo FA Chairman Newton Erhunmwunse, his local coordinator and partner, as well as the Edo State Sports Commission, noting their collective commitment to youth development.

“We’re all working as a team to improve the community, and I think this is a big step forward.”

Reflecting on the competition, Osayi-Samuel emphasized that Nigeria's challenge in youth football lies not in talent, but in access to platforms.

“From my first interview when I came, I said the problem is not ability. It’s the opportunity and the platform to be seen. A tournament like this gives them that chance.”

When asked if he had seen a future “Bright Osayi” on the pitch, he responded confidently:

“Yes, I think I have. Quite a few of them have the potential—not just the winners but the third-place teams too. Every team performed well.”

Looking ahead, Osayi-Samuel hinted at expanding the scope of the tournament, with plans to include girls' teams and higher age categories like U-14 and U-15.

“Maybe we’ll do a U-13 women’s or go up to U-14 and U-15. Coming here has made me realise how much this can grow.”

He also pledged to encourage his Super Eagles teammates to contribute to grassroots initiatives.

“The first year was good, but this second edition is already a big difference. Imagine where we can take it from here.”

In a major career development, Osayi-Samuel confirmed his exit from Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, marking the end of a four-and-a-half-year spell with the club.

“Right now, my Fenerbahçe chapter is done. I’ve had four and a half years there and enjoyed every single minute.”

Although he remained tight-lipped about his next move, he hinted at ongoing talks.

“In the next few days I’ll have a clearer answer about where I’m going. It could be England, Spain… we’ll wait and see.”

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his next club, the Nigeria international reiterated the importance of attending the youth tournament.

“Even with all that is going on, I had to come here. This is home.”

Osayi-Samuel concluded by expressing his joy at the opportunity the tournament offers young players to showcase their abilities.

Okuta FC Wins 2nd Bright Osayi U-13 Tournament as Osayi-Samuel Confirms Fenerbahçe Exit

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