Bougouriba/nioronioro: Botafogo secured victory in the 6th edition of the maracana football tournament, 'ADESI New Talents', held on Saturday, August 15. The team emerged victorious by defeating FC Ral with a score of 1-0 in a gripping final match at school A's field in Nioronioro, attended by an enthusiastic crowd and local dignitaries.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the competition was organized by the Association for the Economic and Social Development of Nioronioro (ADESI) to foster unity, fraternity, and solidarity among the community, while also promoting development through sports. The final event saw a significant attendance from various administrative, traditional, religious, military, and paramilitary authorities, including Innocent Ouattara, the High Commissioner of Ioba, and Fab Contant Traor, the prefect and president of the Special Delegation of Nako.
Vice-president of ADESI, Marguerite Dah, expressed gratitude towards the authorities, partners, and the event's sponsor, Samy Samuel Poda, for their contributions that made the tournament possible. She emphasized ADESI's dedication to continuing similar initiatives, highlighting the role of sports as a catalyst for social cohesion and economic development in the region.
Samy Samuel Poda, the event's sponsor, remarked on his duty to support such events as a native of Nioronioro. He encouraged participating teams to maintain discipline and fair play while urging the youth to ensure the enduring legacy of ADESI, which has been active since 1966.
Joachin Konkobo, representing the master of ceremonies and serving as the prefect and president of the Special Delegation of Nioronioro, applauded the initiative for its contributions to youth development and social cohesion. He called on the youth to embrace discipline, respect, and fair play, asserting that such competitions benefit the entire community.
Botafogo, the tournament champions, were awarded a trophy, a set of jerseys, two balls, and 50,000 CFA francs. FC Ral, the runners-up, received a set of jerseys, two balls, and 45,000 CFA francs. The tournament commenced on July 4 with eight teams and witnessed 17 matches and a total of 34 goals until the final showdown.