The fourth edition of the D’Royal Off-Season Football Tournament (DOFT 2026), tagged “Akara Na Senior Burger,” came to a spectacular close on Sunday, 12th July, bringing the ancient city of Akure to a complete standstill.
In a final that lived up to its billing, debutant side Elite FC shocked defending champions Olukayode FC with a hard-fought 1–0 victory to lift the prestigious trophy. The match was officially kicked off by Ambassador Olaniboji Olatunbosun. Elite FC went home with ₦1,000,000 and the gold medal, while Olukayode FC settled for ₦500,000 and silver. In the third-place playoff, Akure The King City defeated Velocity FC 2–0 to claim bronze and ₦200,000.
The grand finale was preceded by the maiden edition of the DOFT Women’s Cup, a three-team tournament featuring Onimarg FC, K.D.O. FC, and Havilah Queens. Onimarg FC emerged champions, winning ₦200,000, while K.D.O. FC and Havilah Queens received ₦100,000 and ₦50,000 respectively.
In a heartfelt display of inclusion, DRIF (D’Royal Inclusive Foundation) hosted its inaugural Para-Table Tennis Championship, where seven physically challenged athletes engaged in a novelty match and were collectively awarded ₦300,000.
The event kicked off with a breathtaking cultural performance by the J-29 troupe, captivating the audience with vibrant dance and music. Brand sponsors and partners including Bet9ja Foundation, Nestle Nigeria, Providus Bank, H&B Sports Global, Ageless, and GoldIt were well represented, though Rite Foods Limited was unavoidably absent.
DOFT President, Mr. Olaniboji Mathew A.K.A D’Royal, expressed gratitude to fans, participating teams, referees, scouts, the medical team, and the planning committee. He extended special thanks to sponsors and partners for believing in the vision and promised that the fifth edition would be even more spectacular.
The one-month football fiesta ended with a dazzling fireworks display, leaving an indelible memory in the hearts of all who witnessed it.
