Victor Ikpeba Football Challenge Returns To Warri With Increased Prize Money

The fifth edition of the Victor Ikpeba 5-a-Side Football Challenge is scheduled to take place in Warri, Delta State, from 18th to 20th December. The event is designed to be a festive addition to the Christmas and end-of-year celebrations for the local community and Bet9ja patrons.

This year’s competition has been enhanced with an increased prize fund, now standing at N1 million (one million naira), to be shared among a smaller number of teams for improved coordination and entertainment.

The tournament will feature eight teams, primarily comprising players associated with Bet9ja vendors in the area. Bet9ja is a key partner in this community sports and entertainment initiative.

Day one of the competition will see teams battle for a place in the semi-finals, with play continuing the following day for the third-place match, culminating in the grand finale on Saturday, 20th December.

Victor Nosa Ikpeba, the 1997 African Footballer of the Year, inaugurated the first edition in 2021, following an initial event in Surulere, Lagos. Since then, it has become a highly anticipated event for these communities.

Speaking about the upcoming challenge, Ikpeba said, “I don’t know if we would have come this far if Bet9ja did not see that it is helping the youths and decided to partner. So, it’s a thank you to Bet9ja.

“He added, “This year’s edition is wonderful as it ushers in the 2025 AFCON (African Nations Cup), so it will simply be a build-up to the African event. I am happy when I see these young people sweat out for the trophy. We were like this decades back, and my prayer always is that the very gifted ones find a higher ground to fulfil their dreams.”The winners will receive a trophy, with individual awards also presented, and cash prizes for all participating teams.