By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

 

Horvel Prime Academy have been crowned champions of the 2025 HerGame Girls Football Tournament after a dominant 2–0 victory over defending champions Fosla Academy in Saturday’s final at the Area 3 Pitch in Abuja.

 

The second edition of the fast-growing competition marked a significant milestone for the HerGame initiative. What began as an FCT-only tournament has now expanded into a full North Central Regional event, featuring 16 teams — a testament to its rising influence in promoting grassroots girls’ football.

 

The final lived up to expectations, showcasing quality, intensity, and emerging talent. Agatha John struck first for Horvel Prime in the opening half, before star forward Lilian Odide sealed the win with a sensational free-kick. Fosla came close to equalising earlier in the match, but Queen Joseph’s powerful penalty rattled the crossbar with the score still at 1–0.

 

In the third-place playoff, SIK Paragons of Jos edged Generation Next 1–0 to secure the bronze medal. Prize money for the top teams included ₦100,000 for bronze, ₦150,000 for silver, and ₦250,000 for the champions.

 

Horvel Prime captain Jessica Yongu expressed her delight after lifting the trophy.

 

“I’m so excited. Our coaches really put us in order. We fought to the end and we won the gold.”

 

Fosla captain Bawa Janet admitted disappointment after failing to defend their crown but praised her teammates.

 

“I feel sad because I came with the intention of winning it again. But the team played their best. I believe what happened is what God ordained.

We beat them in our opening match, but today it was different. We’ll go back, work on our shortcomings, and come back stronger.”

 

Despite Fosla’s defeat, midfielder Habila Patricia shone brightest throughout the tournament, earning the MVP award.

 

“We planned to win the trophy again, but it didn’t happen. I didn’t expect to be MVP — I’m so happy and grateful.”

 

Golden Boot winner Lilian Odide, who played a crucial role in Horvel Prime’s title run, credited hard work and focus.

 

“First, I thank God for giving me strength. More focus, more training — without practice you cannot reach your goals.”

 

Reflecting on the team’s turnaround after losing their opener to Fosla, Odide added:

 

“We had communication, we had Jinja from our fans. After we lost the first game, the coach told us we are better and must put more effort — and we did.”

 

SIK Paragons goalkeeper Flora William, named Best Goalkeeper, said she was grateful for the recognition.

 

“This is my first time here and I’m very happy. Even though we didn’t reach the final, we really thank God.”

 

Following the final, HerGame Foundation founder Dr. Pat Ajuma Ayegba expressed deep pride in the tournament’s impact.

 

“I feel really fulfilled. Seeing these girls proud and excited gives me immense joy.”

 

She emphasised the life-changing effect of the initiative:

 

“One girl told me football kept her away from crime and social vices. Football is giving these girls direction and showing them they can build a career.”

 

Despite the success, Ayegba noted that financial limitations prevented the event from being even bigger.

 

“It was bigger and better, but still below what I wanted. I was financially handicapped — I used personal resources, and it was overwhelming.”

 

She also praised the quality of play on display.

 

“The technical committee struggled to pick the MVP because the talent level was so high. I even saw girls collecting jerseys, saying they now want to play football.”

 

Ayegba confirmed that the initiative will continue to grow.

 

“There will be a third edition — bigger and better.”

 

Among the dignitaries present were Hon. Kabiru Amadu, Chairman of the House Committee on Sports; Hajiya (Dr.) Nafisa Shehu Mohammed, President of ROSOWA; Hajiya Amina Sani-Zango-Daura, Head of Women’s Football at the NFF; former NFF President and FOSLA Academy founder Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi; and FCT FA Secretary, Haruna Ilerika.

 

ROSOWA President Nafisat Shehu Muhammad applauded the initiative’s role in nurturing girls’ football.

 

“This is very commendable. When women are given the space to showcase their talents, it goes a long way. We are not here to intimidate one another. We are here to hold hands, support each other, and make names for ourselves.”

 

With Horvel Prime lifting the trophy, Fosla Academy showing resilience, standout talents like Lilian Odide, Habila Patricia, and Flora William emerging, and influential leaders championing girl-child empowerment, HerGame 2025 once again proved that the future of women’s football in Nigeria is bright, bold, and unstoppable.