Ozalla Football Academy proved a worthy Ambassadors of Anambra State in the ongoing 2024 National U-19 Youth League following a brilliant start to the campaign inside the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, on Saturday, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

The 2023 Anambra FA Cup winners made a winning start in the playoffs following a 2-1 decimation of Emalex FC in their Group C opening match.

Michael Chidera was on target for the Ikenna Osueke boys who led 2-0 in the first period. With a healthy 2-0advantage going into the break, Coach Felix Aguguom charges came back into the second period defended in large numbers while trying to catch their opponents on the break.

But that didn't work despite few chances that were carved out but which were not made to count. Instead, it was Emalex that halved the deficit midway into the second half, leaving the final scores at 2-1.

Ozalla FA will on Monday, take on Elebuibon Boys in their second and final match of the group.

Ikenna Osueke, President of Ozalla FA was full of praises to God for his team's victory.

"We're grateful to God for the victory. It isn't easy. It was indeed a tough match and I'm happy that God saw us through.

"We came here convinced it will be a difficult tournament because all the teams are well prepared and good.

"But like I always say, only God knows which team will emerge as overall champions but as humans, we only need to play our part and pray that God in His infinite mercy, crowns our efforts", Osueke said.