The fourth edition of the D’Royal Off-Season Football Tournament (DOFT) got underway in grand style on Saturday with a colourful opening ceremony at the Akure Township Stadium, where defending champions Olukayode FC marked the occasion with an impressive 3-1 victory over Velocity FC.
Held under the vibrant theme, “Akara na Senior Burger”, the tournament’s opening day combined football, entertainment and cultural displays in a celebration of grassroots sports development that drew an enthusiastic crowd and an array of distinguished guests.
Representing the Ondo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Segun Omoyofunmi, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr A.A. Adeyemi, performed the ceremonial kick-off, officially declaring the tournament open.
Among other notable personalities in attendance were the General Manager of the Ondo State Sports Council, Mrs Evelyn Lebi; Chairperson of the Ondo State Coaches Association and Sunshine Queens coach, Mrs Onilude Tayo; Chairman of the Akure South Sports Council and President of the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON), Ondo State Chapter, Mr Ogunlade Abayomi; as well as the President and Vice-President of H&B Sports Global, Ambassador Doc. Henry Abiodun and Mrs Henry Abiodun.
The event also attracted strong corporate backing, with representatives from Bet9ja Foundation, Rites Foods Nigeria Limited, Nestlé, Providus Bank and several other partners in attendance, underlining growing support for grassroots football initiatives in the state.
Festivities began at 1pm with cultural performances and goodwill messages from tournament officials and stakeholders, setting an upbeat atmosphere for the day’s activities.
The highlight of the opening day came at 4pm when defending champions Olukayode FC faced Velocity FC in the tournament’s curtain-raiser. Backed by a lively home crowd, Olukayode FC produced a dominant display to secure a convincing 3-1 win and begin their title defence on a winning note.
Fans were also treated to musical performances from artistes Hvntar and Ben Ace, whose energetic pre-match entertainment added to the carnival-like atmosphere inside the stadium.
Speaking after the opening ceremony, DOFT Chief Executive Officer, Olaniboji Mathew, expressed appreciation to the Ondo State Government, sponsors and football supporters for their continued commitment to the tournament.
“DOFT remains dedicated to grassroots football development, talent discovery and youth empowerment. This year’s edition, under the theme ‘Akara na Senior Burger’, promises sportainment at its very best and an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike,” he said.
The competition will continue with group-stage fixtures over the coming weeks before culminating in the grand finale on 12 July 2026.
A total of 16 teams are participating in this year’s tournament: Whitehorse FA, Legends FC, Ipole FC, Olukayode FC, Velocity FC, FJ FC, WonderXchange FC, SGIC FC, Salem FC, Ipata Signatures, Elite FC, Victory Lions, Celecal Stars, RawGold Soccer Academy, Alagbaka FC and Akure City the King FC.
With a successful opening day and an exciting field of contenders, the 2026 DOFT promises weeks of thrilling football and a valuable platform for emerging talents to showcase their abilities.
