Twenty men and women’s teams in Edo State are set to begin battle for the top prizes in both categories of the state FA Cup.

An elaborate draws ceremony and presentation of trophies for the competition was held on Monday at the media centre of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.

The competition begins on March 31, with Ine Stars battling Press Stars in the opening game in the men’s category while the final of both events is scheduled for the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, on April 5.

The winners’ trophy christened the Adams Oshiomhole Cup was donated by former Nigeria player and coach, Austin Eguavoen while the Pius Odubu Cup for the losing finalists was donated by Osaro Asemota.

The third-place winners’ trophy was donated by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Prof Julius Ihonvbere. Other personalities that donated trophies were Godwin Dudu-Orumen (MVP and N50, 000 cash), Mike Itemuagbor (Best Defender) and Chris Okaeben, a former sports commissioner in the state (Best Goalkeeper).

Financier of the Edo State U-13 Grassroots Football Tournament, Emmanuel Uso, also donated a trophy for the Best Young Player of the competition.

The state’s Commissioner for Sports, Presley Ediagbonya, commended Edo FA chairman, Frank IIaboya, for bringing a new dimension to the Edo FA Cup.

He added that the zeal displayed by the newly-elected FA board will go a long way in encouraging the government to revive football in the state.

Ex-Super Falcons and Golden Eaglets coach, Godwin Izilein, praised the organisation of the competition.