The stage is set for the much-anticipated 20th edition of the Gwagwalada Football League, with a record number of 26 teams ready to battle for glory. What started two decades ago with just 10 teams has grown into one of the most competitive grassroots football tournaments in the FCT.

 

Chairman of the 2025 edition, Patrick Ngwaogu, confirmed that opening matches will be held simultaneously at two venues — Government Day Secondary School (GDSS), Gwagwalada, and the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) pitch.

 

At GDSS, the opening game will see Excel FC take on Dukpa United FC, setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling competition. That clash will be followed by Desert Warriors going head-to-head with Cottage FC in what is expected to be a fierce encounter.

 

The third match at the venue will feature academy sides as ECN Academy locks horns with Bocknor Academy, while the final fixture of the day will see Sensational Stars take on FC 20.

 

Meanwhile, at the UATH pitch, Kapital Waves will test their mettle against Medical Strikers, before Medical Feeders face Riverside FC in another tightly matched game. The third encounter will see Ejanla FC challenge NIMMA FC, followed by a blockbuster tie between Golden Boys and Inspirational Sports FC to wrap up the day’s action.

 

The league action continues on Sunday, with Net Shakers squaring off against Young Stars, and Ejiwumi FC taking on Sky FC at the GDSS pitch. Over at UATH, Abudabi FC will clash with Potters FC, before Daniel Academy faces Babayaro FC to round off the weekend fixtures.

 

With increased participation and wider community engagement, organizers say this year’s edition will not only showcase budding talents but also reinforce Gwagwalada’s status as a hotbed of grassroots football development in Nigeria.

 

The football fever is back — and Gwagwalada is ready.