GChekas United FC emerged champions of the Badagry divisional qualifiers of the 2026 Spires 5-Aside Naija Street Soccer Tournament, securing their place at the state finals after a dramatic weekend of action and excitement.
The fiercely contested qualifiers produced memorable moments as three teams booked automatic places in the state championship, while former divisional champions All Saints FC suffered the disappointment of missing out.
Chekas United, runners-up in last year’s competition, went one step further this time, defeating tournament debutants Smiler All Champions FC in a thrilling final at the Honourable Lukman Olumoh Sports Complex in Awori-Ora, Ajegunle.
Penalty Shootout Drama Decides Thrilling Final
The final lived up to expectations, ending 3-3 after regulation time before Chekas United prevailed in a tense sudden-death penalty shootout to lift the divisional crown.
Despite falling short in the final, Smiler All Champions FC impressed throughout the tournament and secured qualification for the state finals in their first appearance.
In the third-place play-off, Emaljus FC defeated All Saints FC 2-1 to claim the final qualification slot for the state championship.
As divisional champions, Chekas United received a cash prize of ₦500,000, while runners-up Smiler All Champions FC earned ₦300,000. Third-placed Emaljus FC took home ₦100,000.
Although All Saints failed to qualify, their forward Moses Obi finished as the tournament’s highest goalscorer and was rewarded with a ₦50,000 cash prize.
Organisers Hail Quality of Competition
Public Relations Director of the tournament, Victor Ottah, praised the quality of football on display and the passionate support from fans throughout the competition.
“This is what the tournament is all about—grit, excitement and community spirit. The Badagry division was truly a spectacle, and we hope to see even more fireworks when the competition moves to Ikeja,” Ottah said.
Tournament Brand Ambassador Chukwudi Ezugwu also commended the initiative’s founder, Dr Bankole Allibay, for creating opportunities for grassroots footballers to develop their talents and pursue professional careers.
Ezugwu further called on corporate organisations to support youth-focused sporting initiatives, stressing their importance in talent development and social empowerment.
The divisional qualifiers will now move to Ikeja, where another eight teams will battle for places at the main tournament scheduled for November, setting the stage for another round of exciting street football action.