OBATERU 7-ASIDE CUP: Leeds United Make Winning Statement, Thrash AS Roma 3-1 in Historic Opener
Leeds United of Irele began their campaign in the maiden edition of the OBATERU 7-ASIDE CUP on an impressive note, defeating AS Roma of Igbobini 3–1 in an entertaining opening encounter at Premier College Field, Ode Irele, on Friday.
The encounter, which marked the official opening match of the grassroots football competition, witnessed an exciting display of attacking football, determination and competitive spirit from both sides.
Leeds United took control of proceedings early in the first half, breaking the deadlock in the 8th minute through Dayo, whose effort gave the Irele-based side an early advantage.
AS Roma’s challenge suffered another setback in the 30th minute when an unfortunate own goal by Manaseh doubled Leeds United’s advantage, sending them into the break with a comfortable 2–0 lead.
The second half resumed with both teams pushing for goals, but Leeds United continued to demonstrate their attacking strength. Their persistence paid off in the 54th minute when Joseph found the back of the net to extend the lead to three goals.
AS Roma, however, refused to surrender without a fight and responded three minutes later, as David pulled one back in the 57th minute to reduce the deficit.
Despite the late response from the Igbobini side, Leeds United maintained their advantage until the final whistle to secure a deserved 3–1 victory and the first three points of the competition.
Beyond the result, the opening match represents the beginning of a vision aimed at discovering grassroots football talents, empowering young people and promoting unity across Ikale Land and Ondo South.
Speaking on the vision behind the competition, the Organizer, Thespian Ibukunoluwa Obateru, IBUSCO MR SPORT (OBAT), reiterated that the OBATERU 7-ASIDE CUP was conceived out of his passion for sports and his belief that communities are blessed with abundant football talents waiting for the right opportunities, encouragement and platforms to shine.
He emphasized that football is more than just a game, describing it as a powerful instrument for talent discovery, discipline, teamwork, friendship and youth empowerment.
The Organizer also expressed appreciation to the sponsors, partners, supporters, sports stakeholders, traditional institutions, community leaders, match officials, participating teams, media organizations and the people of Ode Irele for their contributions towards making the maiden edition a reality.
He further stressed that the ambition is to establish the OBATERU CUP as a sustainable annual grassroots football competition capable of attracting football scouts, sponsors and wider sports development opportunities to the participating communities.
Football action in the maiden edition of the OBATERU 7-ASIDE CUP will resume on Monday, November 9, 2026, with two exciting fixtures scheduled to take place at the same venue, Premier College Field, Ode Irele.
The day’s programme will feature:
MATCH 1
– Manchester City FC vs Arsenal FC
– Time: 2:45 PM
MATCH 2
– Napoli FC vs Bayern Munich FC
– Time: 4:00 PM
Both encounters promise another exciting afternoon of grassroots football as the participating teams continue their quest for glory in the competition.
Football lovers, supporters and residents of Ode Irele, Irele and neighbouring communities are encouraged to turn out in large numbers to support the teams and enjoy quality grassroots football.
The OBATERU 7-ASIDE CUP remains committed to promoting the core values of TALENT DISCOVERY, YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, UNITY, DISCIPLINE, FAIR PLAY AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
With Leeds United securing the first victory of the tournament, the maiden edition has enjoyed an exciting start, setting the stage for more competitive encounters in the days ahead.
OBATERU 7-ASIDE CUP
Talent Discovery. Yo
uth Empowerment. Unity. Discipline. Fair Play.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
