Ouagadougou:Olympique de Ouagadougou's under-17 team claimed victory in the 3rd edition of the Toma International Football Tournament (TIFTO) on Sunday, October 4. They defeated AS Elite 6-5 in a penalty shootout after the final ended in a goalless draw at the National School of Administration and Magistracy (ENAM).
According to Burkina Information Agency, the final match was played in two 35-minute halves and presented a high-quality spectacle for spectators. Olympique de Ouagadougou adopted a possession-based style, while AS Elite focused on counter-attacks. Despite several chances for both sides, the match remained scoreless, leading to a penalty shootout where OL/Ouaga prevailed.
Alongside the trophy, OL/Ouaga received a gold medal, two balls, a sports equipment voucher worth 250,000 FCFA, and a cash prize of 200,000 FCFA. AS Elite, as runners-up, were awarded a silver medal, two balls, 100,000 FCFA, and a similar sports equipment voucher. Individual awards were also presented to outstanding players, including the best goalkeeper, top scorer, and best player.
Commander Ollo Palenfo, Secretary General of the Ministry of Homeland Construction, presided over the closing ceremony, commending the organization and the commitment shown by the promoter. He stressed the importance of such competitions for developing grassroots football and nurturing new talent.
Yasmine Oudraogo, a sponsor of the competition and member of the Communication and Marketing Commission of the Burkinabe Football Federation, highlighted the event's role in sustaining young players' passion for football.
Jacques Dala, the promoter of TIFTO and president of Lowgoin FC of Toma, expressed satisfaction with the event's outcome. He noted the challenges of organizing the tournament but was pleased with the progress towards achieving its objectives. Dala acknowledged the potential within Burkinabe youth football, as demonstrated by the quality of play in the final.
Looking ahead, Dala announced plans for major innovations in the fourth edition, which will feature four Burkinabe and four foreign teams. Scouts are also expected to attend, and there is potential for the tournament to return to Toma, aligning with its original purpose.