In a historic and emotionally charged finale, Kuru District etched their names in the annals of Berom football by clinching the first-ever Berom Nations Cup title in dramatic fashion.
The final, played under the watchful eyes of passionate fans and local dignitaries, ended 1-1 after regulation time, with Kuru emerging victorious 5-4 on penalties against a resilient Du District.
Du took an early lead in the 8th minute through Stephen Gyang, capitalizing on a high-tempo start. However, the joy was short-lived as Lucas Samson of Kuru equalized just six minutes later, following a critical error from Du’s goalkeeper.
Despite numerous chances on both sides, the deadlock remained unbroken through full-time, setting the stage for a tense penalty shootout. The Kuru players kept their composure, while their fans roared with each successful strike. When the final penalty hit the back of the net, jubilation erupted, and the players hoisted the trophy to the skies of Berom Land.
Zawan District secured third place, rounding off an inspiring tournament that featured 14 districts: Foron, Gashish, Heipang, Riyom, Fan, Bachi, Aboro, Du, Kuru, Gyel, Vwang, Za’ang, Jos, and Ropp.
At the closing ceremony, Geoffrey Bottson, President of the Berom Sports Development Association (BESDA) and Chairman of the Berom Nations Cup, hailed the tournament as the dawn of a new era in Berom sports development. He emphasized the long-term vision behind the initiative: a structured, consistent grassroots football program targeting every district in Berom Land.
“We’re setting up a legacy,” Bottson said. “This tournament is more than a competition — it’s a stepping stone for our youth to shine locally and globally.”
He also revealed plans for a comprehensive Under-12 Sports Development Program and hinted at future tournaments in basketball, athletics, and more, with skilled coaches and state-of-the-art facilities to nurture young talent from the grassroots.
Rt. Rev. Father Joseph Nyam, who organized the last major Berom football competition over three decades ago, lauded the initiative and challenged the community to remain consistent in their support.
“These children, if developed well, are the ones who will make Nigeria proud on the global stage,” he remarked.
The Berom Nations Cup, which kicked off on March 1 and concluded April 21, 2025, is set to become an annual celebration of sports, unity, and youth empowerment.
Looking ahead, BESDA is already preparing for the inaugural Ngo Hannatu Chollom Cup, a tournament dedicated to female footballers, further expanding the horizons of sports development across Berom Land.