The Edo State Football Association on Friday afternoon held the draws for the State FA Cup where 27 clubs in the state were paired with each other for the state’s level of the country’s biggest football competition which is set to begin on Monday, 30th of May, 2022.
At a press conference and draw ceremony which took place at the Media Centre of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Friday as presided over by the State’s FA Secretary, Elder Ajibola Emmanuel, all participating teams were represented at the event which has a total number of 23 male clubs and 4 female clubs matched up to slug it out for the final spots and earn the state’s ticket for the national level, the AITEO Cup.
Elder Ajibola Emmanuel in his address advised participating teams to be of good conduct and adhere to the rules of the game stating that discipline should be their watchword.
“Football is a game of discipline with rules guiding it, and that it is going to be upheld throughout the competition”.
“We can assure you that the officials that will be officiating this edition will be the selected best that will give you a level playing ground”.
The tournament begins on Monday, the 30th of May, 2022 with the preliminary rounds taking place at the School of Health and Technology football pitch as well as the Western Boys High School mini stadium in Benin with the finals to be played at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Sunday, 12th of June, 2022.
Defending champions, Bendel Insurance and last edition’s runners up and third placed teams, BJ FC and Eagle Wings were drawn bye in the first round and have advanced to the round of 16.
Rolly FC, Yak FC, Brave Hearts FC, Bendel Insurance feeders and Melvin FC were also randomly drawn as a bye for the tournament.
Preliminary Stage (MALE)
Monday 30th May 2022
Star City Fc vs Shooting Arrow
Rising Stars vs Oloke FC
Benin Warriors vs Young Warriors Fc
Uromi Stars vs Alhaji FC
Tuesday 31st May 2021
Konstanta Dike FC vs Genesis
United Stars vs Afemai United
Royal FC vs Gabson FC
Women’s Pairing
Edo Queens vs Genesis Queens
Brave Hearts vs Fortress Ladies.