Our reporter
Preparations for the maiden Benin Unity Cup accelerated on Monday as the Edo State Football Association, led by its chairman, Fred Newton Erhunmwense, conducted an official pitch inspection at Crescent Sports Club ahead of Thursday’s kick-off.
The visit, carried out alongside members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the tournament powered by Senator Neda Imasuen, marks a crucial step toward launching what organisers describe as a community championship built on the theme of “unity through football.” The competition will feature teams from all seven local government areas in Edo South Senatorial District.
Speaking after the assessment, Erhunmwense said the inspection was aimed at confirming the readiness of the facility to host large crowds expected throughout the month-long event.
“The LOC is here to inspect the field for the maiden edition of the Benin Unity Cup,” he said. “It’s being sponsored by our distinguished senator, Neda Imasuen. We came to look at the nature of the pitch and see how we can accommodate the fans who will be coming. We are grateful to the management of Crescent Sports Club for this wonderful facility.”
He added that the venue is set to become the focal point of grassroots football in the coming weeks.
“I believe that for the next one month, all roads will lead to this place. Fans will be here to watch good football across the seven teams participating in this tournament in honour of our senator,” he said.
Austin Osaruyi Asemota, a representative of the Benin Summit Group and member of the LOC, reinforced the significance of the exercise, describing the inspection as essential to delivering a standout opening.
“We are here for the field assessment because the competition begins this Thursday,” he said. “We also want to use this opportunity to appreciate Senator Neda Imasuen for this noble vision.”
With the pitch now approved and anticipation rising across Edo South, organisers say the Benin Unity Cup is poised to become more than a tournament, a unifying platform for communities and a fresh showcase for emerging football talent in the state.
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