A youth-focused football tournament organised by the Dr Krystal Chanchangi Foundation in collaboration with the Ighalo Orphanage Home brought renewed energy to the FIFA Goal Project pitch at the National Stadium, Abuja, over the weekend. The Unity charity match saw Basic Maracana FC defeat Olympic Hybrid FC via a penalty shootout to clinch the ₦1 million top prize.

The event was part of ongoing youth empowerment efforts by the Foundation, founded by development advocate and cultural activist, Dr Krystal Chanchangi. The fixture, which drew a lively crowd, featured prominent guests including former Super Eagles coach Samson Siasia and ex-international Omagifu Onoride.

Basic Maracana FC and Olympic Hybrid FC treated spectators to an engaging match filled with intensity and flair. Despite a goalless first half, the deadlock was broken in the 70th minute by Olympic Hybrid’s Christian Ewo, whose long-range effort rattled the net. The match, however, was far from over, as Basic Maracana’s Wisdom Martins equalised in the 90th minute following a fluid team move.

With full-time ending 1-1, the match went to penalties. Olympic Hybrid faltered, missing two spot-kicks, while Basic Maracana converted four of theirs to secure a 4-2 victory. The champions were awarded ₦1 million in prize money, while the runners-up received ₦200,000.

Speaking at the event, football star and founder of the Ighalo Orphanage Home, Odion Ighalo, commended the Foundation for what he described as “a noble and timely intervention.” He encouraged the young players and attendees to stay committed to their dreams, regardless of the challenges.

“I’m proud to be part of this initiative. Collaborating with the Krystal Chanchangi Foundation is special, and I see future stars on this pitch,” he said.

Dr Krystal Chanchangi, who was present with her daughter, Kleopatra Vargas — visiting Nigeria for the first time — highlighted the Foundation’s consistent investment in youth development.

“This is not our first sporting outreach. We have hosted events across disciplines; basketball, tennis, volleyball, para-soccer, even kids’ multicultural fashion shows and academic competitions, all with a view to uplifting talented, underprivileged, and resilient individuals,” she said.

She reiterated her passion for creating platforms that offer real opportunities for young people, especially those from marginalised communities.

The event forms part of a broader social impact strategy by the Foundation, which has hosted several empowerment events aimed at blending culture, education, and sports to support Nigeria’s next generation.

With support from public figures and former athletes, the Abuja match marked another milestone in the Foundation’s mission to provide inspiration, visibility, and opportunity to Nigeria’s youth, one pitch, one player at a time.