Riverpark FC made an emphatic start to the inaugural River Park Football Club Tournament in Abuja, thrashing Elite FC 6-2 in an entertaining Group A encounter at River Park Field, Cluster 3, River Park Estate.

The hosts dominated the opening match, which kicked off with an impressive attacking display that earned them three points and an early advantage in the group.

Riverpark FC’s forward, Mayor, stole the spotlight with a brace to emerge as the Player of the Match.

BONMichael Udeh, also known as Micah, Ifeanyi Eze, Terngu Martin Mzembah and JAY scored one goal each to complete the hosts’ six-goal haul.

Elite FC found the net twice through Emmanuel Ezekiele and Daniel Chinedu but could not prevent Riverpark FC from securing a convincing victory.

The match also saw five yellow cards issued, with Riverpark FC receiving three and Elite FC two, according to the official match report filed by the Match Commissioner, Shedrach Owolabi.

Speaking ahead of the tournament’s opening match, the Organising Committee Chairman, Tobby Obiefuna, said the competition was established to promote football, encourage physical fitness and strengthen relationships among football enthusiasts in Riverpark City and neighbouring communities.

“Our core objectives are to promote physical fitness, celebrate a shared love for the game, and build strong bonds among football enthusiasts both within and outside Riverpark City,” Obiefuna said.

He explained that the tournament was conceived as an annual event, adding that the organisers adopted a competitive 10-a-side format after considering the calibre of experienced players within their ranks.

The competition features eight teams divided into two groups. Riverpark FC and Elite FC are in Group A alongside Zealfield FA and Gazebo FC, while Titan FC, Avengers FC, Cyclick FC and CRD FC make up Group B.

The tournament is scheduled to end on November 8, with the organising committee promising quality facilities and the services of CAF-licensed match officials, with support from sponsors.

Obiefuna expressed confidence in the competition’s prospects, assuring participating teams and supporters of a successful and memorable tournament.

“As Chairman of the Organizing Committee, I am confident that this tournament will be a top-notch, successful, and memorable event for everyone involved,” he said.