Four foreign clubs set to test Nigerian clubs in upcoming tournament in Enugu
Brazilian powerhouse Esporte Clube Vitoria faces off against top Nigerian clubs and three other African giants in the upcoming Coal City International Cup.
According to multiple sources, this thrilling tournament will kick off on August 1, 2024, in Enugu, Nigeria, promising action-packed matches and fierce competition.
In this inaugural edition of the Coal City International Cup, eight elite teams will battle it out for glory and a substantial prize pool.
Esporte Clube Vitoria, representing Brazil, have secured an exclusive invitation to join three esteemed African clubs: Gor Mahia from Kenya, FC Kallon from Sierra Leone, and Cotton FC from Benin Republic.
The host nation, Nigeria, will be well represented by four strong contenders: Enugu Rangers, Enyimba FC, Kano Pillars, and Remo Stars Sports Club.
Spearheaded by the Enugu State government, the tournament aims not only to deliver thrilling football action but also to boost the region’s entertainment and economic sectors.
Ifeanyi Ogbu, spokesperson for the competition, revealed that matches will take place in over nine exciting days at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.
Each participating team is guaranteed a generous appearance fee of N5 million per match, ensuring a minimum payday of N15 million for every club after playing at least three matches.
Ogbu expressed hopes that the successful hosting of the tournament could pave the way for hosting international matches at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, showcasing Enugu’s new stadium, equipped by the state government.
With a tantalizing grand prize of N50 million up for grabs for the champions and a respectable N10 million for the runner-up, the stakes are high in this thrilling competition.
Esporte Clube Vitoria, founded in 1899 in Salvador, Bahia, boasts a rich history. After clinching the Serie B championship in 2023, they now compete in the prestigious Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. The Brazilian giants will face tough competition from reigning Nigerian champions Enyimba and four-time NPFL kings Kano Pillars, promising an epic clash of football titans.
