By Chigozie Chukwuleta
The 8th edition of the Ifeanyi Ekwueme TICO/Select Preseason Tournament will hold from 5th to 12th August 2026 in Enugu and Owerri.
Organizers while describing the tournament as a legacy said that it is aimed at promoting talent development, unity, and youth empowerment through football.
Speaking to newsmen, the sponsor of the tournament, former Nigerian International, Ifeanyi Ekwueme said the tournament has established itself as one of the strongest preseason tournament in the zone.
“The Ifeanyi Ekwueme TICO/Select Preseason Tournament has, over the years, established itself as one of the strongest preseason tournaments in Nigeria.
“The 8th edition, holding from 5th to 12th August 2026 in Enugu and Owerri, is more than football. It is a legacy of talent discovery, youth empowerment, unity, and excellence that continues to raise the standard of the game in our country”, he stated
The annual preseason event will feature 10 teams across Nigeria’s football pyramid: two football academies, two Nigeria National League One [NLO] teams, two Nigeria National League [NNL] sides, and four Nigeria Premier Football League clubs in what is billed as a premium contest with high standards and quality football.
Beyond the pitch, organizers said the event will also focus on networking and building connections for players, coaches, and stakeholders.
According to the organisers, every participating team will receive 10 branded T-shirts for officials, plus 3 Select match balls. Semi-finalists will also get jerseys for the semi-final and final matches as compensation for their participation.
In the final, champions will be presented with gold medals and a giant trophy, while runners-up will receive 25 silver medals.
The participation of NPFL, NNL, NLO teams and academies is expected to provide top-flight clubs with quality preparatory games, while giving lower-division sides and academies the chance to test themselves against stronger opposition ahead of the new season.
The competition is proudly supported by Toscana Hotel, Aaron Suites, Prossy Investment Ltd, and Emeks Sports & Boutique Nig Ltd.
