…As 5 Players Set To Jet Out To Europe
Bayelsa State is gearing up to host the 6th edition of the prestigious Douye Diri International Scouting Tournament, a platform that showcases Nigeria’s brightest young football talents. This year’s event is scheduled for December 4th to 8th, 2024, at the iconic Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.
The Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament organises the tournament, also known as the Prosperity Cup. According to the tournament’s Director General, Mr. Ono Akpe, the event promises to be an exciting opportunity for young players to gain international exposure and secure lucrative deals with top European clubs.
The invitation-only tournament is a direct result of the outstanding success of the Prosperity Cup, which has attracted global attention for its exceptional talent showcase. This year’s event will feature top European scouts, coaches, and club representatives seeking to discover Nigeria’s next football sensations.
Some of the esteemed scouts and coaches attending the event include Ertugun Yusuf Emre Adanyspor, sporting director of Turkey; Fred French, vice president of FC Quomi of Malta; and Fatih Ates, coach of Bulusopor of Turkey.
Other scouts include Naujot Singh Brar, X-One Agency of Norway, Turan Aykut, Adabademin FC of Turkey, Hillary Azado of OTP Sporting Director Finland, Peter Neketein UEFA Coach B, Kelvin Etemike, Chief Scout OTP of Finland and CEO Tristone Sport Management; and Hakan Uyammis, Top Agent Turkey.
Five talented players from the previous edition have been selected to undergo trials in Lithuania, Malta, and Turkey as a testament to the tournament’s success. These players have already undergone intensive medical examinations to ensure they meet the required European standard for the January transfer window.
The Scouting/Coaching clinic programme will take place from December 4th to 8th, 2024, with coaches advised to feature players between the ages of 18 and 21. A pre-season coaching clinic will also be held in preparation for the Prosperity Cup Season 7, scheduled for February next year.
The organisers of the tournament would like to extend their gratitude to the state governor, Senator Douye Diri, his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, and the commissioner for sports development, Dr. Daniel Igali, for their unwavering support and vision for sports development in the state.
“We are committed to harnessing the vast football talents in Bayelsa State and providing a platform for them to shine on the global stage,” said Mr Ono Akpe.
