The Senator Ekong Sampson Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District Unity Cup 2026 has entered a decisive stage, with 11 goals recorded in five matches played across three centres on Monday.
Onna, Mbo, Udung Uko and Mkpat Enin Local Government Areas recorded emphatic victories, while Eket and Esit Eket played out a goalless draw at the Eket Township Stadium.
Onna defeated Ibeno 3-0, while Mbo secured a 2-0 victory over hosts Oron at the Oron Township Stadium. Udung Uko also recorded a 3-0 win over Okobo, while Mkpat Enin thrashed Eastern Obolo 3-0 at the Ikot Abasi Local Government Field.
The Technical Director of the tournament, Coach Udobia Udobia, commended the standard of play, noting that the results reflected improved tactical awareness and attacking quality among the participating teams.
Coach Udobia said the tournament was achieving its objective of identifying emerging football talents and providing them with a platform to develop their careers.
He disclosed that he had already identified four outstanding players from Monday’s matches whom he believed had the potential to compete at the national level.
The Technical Director also explained that the Group A match-free day observed on Tuesday was designed to allow participating teams recover fully, in line with international best practices, as the competition moves into its decisive stage.
The Tournament Coordinator and National President of GRASOF, Hon. John Bassey Ekpenyong, commended the teams for maintaining fair play and appreciated the sponsor, Senator Ekong Sampson, for sustaining the vision of promoting unity through sports.