One of Africa’s leading sports development institutions, CitySports Africa, has returned from the prestigious Schwabenland Cup (European Football Cup), organised by Ballfreunde in Stuttgart, Germany, with two championship titles in the U-9 and U-15 categories, a feat never before achieved in a single international tournament by the academy.
  
The tournament, which was held from June 6 to 8, 2025, was the first phase of the academy’s activities for 2025’s Global Sports Programme (GSP).
 
This trip to Stuttgart was the 14th international sports trip the academy would make over the years. Competing in three categories, U-9, U-12, and U-15, the CitySports Africa’s teams displayed exceptional skill, discipline, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
 
All three teams progressed to the semifinals, with the U-9, and U-15 clinching gold, and the brave fighters of the U-12 category finishing in fourth place. With two clean sheets and eight goals scored in the knockout phase, the outstanding U-9 category clinched the European Cup title in style, while the U-15 in a tightly contested final, won the penalty shootout to emerge as champions of the 2025 Schwabenland Cup.
 
The academy’s back-to-back victories in the U-9 and U-15 brackets solidify its standing as one of Africa’s foremost youth football academies.
 
Speaking on the feat, CEO, Shola Opaleye, said: “This moment is a testament to the talent, tenacity, and teamwork that define CitySports Africa. 
 
“This isn’t just a win for CitySports Africa; it’s a win for Nigeria. Taking home two trophies from an international tournament speaks volumes about the resilience, talent, and determination of our young athletes. Representing the country on this stage was an honour, and every child gave their all. We didn’t just participate, we dominated. From Nigeria to Stuttgart, the world saw our potential and our passion for the sport.”
 
The Schwabenland Cup, one of Europe’s most respected youth football tournaments, brought together elite teams from across the globe and the historic double win marked the first time the academy has secured two international trophies in one tournament, a milestone that reflects its unwavering pursuit of excellence, growth, and global competitiveness.