In a thrilling display of skill, teamwork, and football intelligence, HTT Academy’s Ilupeju Centre claimed a well-deserved 3–1 win over their counterparts from Oke-Odo Centre in an electrifying friendly match. The encounter, which took place under vibrant skies and loud cheers from the crowd, served as a testament to the academy’s commitment to nurturing raw talent and promoting youth football development in Nigeria.
A MATCH THAT DELIVERED MORE THAN GOALS
From the very first whistle, Ilupeju Centre stamped their authority on the game. The team displayed confidence in possession, sharp movement off the ball, and clinical execution in the final third. The first goal came early, a result of coordinated midfield buildup and a cool finish that had the crowd roaring.
Oke-Odo Centre, known for their resilience and fighting spirit, regrouped quickly and tried to find their rhythm. They created a few chances and managed to find the back of the net before halftime. But Ilupeju proved too strong, adding two more goals in the second half to seal the 3–1 victory.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GAME:
- First Half:
- Ilupeju took early control, scoring within the opening 21 minutes.
- Oke-Odo equalized with a powerful shot from outside the box.
- Midfield battle intensified, with both teams pressing high.
- Second Half:
- Ilupeju’s attackers capitalized on defensive errors to score twice.
- Solid defensive work and a standout performance from Ilupeju’s goalkeeper kept Oke-Odo at bay.
- The game ended with applause from parents, coaches, and fans alike.
MORE THAN JUST A GAME – IT’S ABOUT GROWTH
At HTT Academy, friendly matches like this are more than just competition—they’re a key part of our player development model. These games expose young players to real-match pressure, foster teamwork, and provide a chance to implement training-ground lessons on the pitch.
This match between Ilupeju and Oke-Odo also reflects the success of HTT Academy’s structure in building confidence, character, and football IQ among young athletes across its various centres.
COACH’S COMMENT:
“The boys from Ilupeju executed the game plan with maturity. Every goal came from teamwork, not just individual effort. We’re proud of their progress and Oke-Odo’s determination too—it was a game of true sportsmanship.”
— HTT Coaching Staff
THE BIGGER PICTURE: BUILDING THE FUTURE OF NIGERIAN FOOTBALL
This match further strengthens HTT Academy’s position as one of the leading grassroots football academies in Nigeria, with centres across Lagos dedicated to spotting, training, and elevating football talents aged 10–16. Through consistent training, structured games, and mentorship, we’re shaping the stars of tomorrow.
With the continued support of parents, local communities, and dedicated coaches, HTT Academy remains focused on providing young players with access to professional pathways—whether through school scholarships, pro trials, or international opportunities.
FINAL SCORE:
Ilupeju Centre – 3
Oke-Odo Centre – 1
Stay tuned as both centres return to training and prepare for upcoming inter-centre matches, talent trials, and showcase tournaments.
Want your child to be part of the HTT journey?
Register today for a free trial session at www.httacademy.co.uk or www.httacademy.ng
