Mulade, Yusuf Explore Portugal’s IberCup for Grassroots Football Growth Opportunities
By Wilson Macaulay
Foremost Niger Delta philanthropist and Chairman of the Delta State Mini Football Association, Dr. Mulade Sheriff, alongside the President of the Nigeria Mini Football Association, Alhaji Datti Umar Yusuf, has stormed Portugal to explore investment and development opportunities in grassroots football.
The visit is centered around their participation in the globally acclaimed IberCup 2026, widely regarded as one of the largest youth football tournaments in the world. The competition features over 400 teams drawn from more than 30 countries, with players between the ages of 10 and 18 showcasing their talents on an international stage.
Speaking at the tournament, Ambassador Mulade, who also serves as Vice President of the Nigeria Mini Football Association, emphasized that the trip is a strategic move to acquire valuable knowledge that will strengthen youth football development initiatives in Nigeria, particularly through his Africa 4 Peace Sports Academy.
He described the IberCup as a remarkable platform that brings together young talents from across the globe in a well-organized and competitive environment, offering them visibility and opportunities to be scouted by international clubs.
“It is inspiring to see young players from different parts of the world display exceptional football skills in such a conducive atmosphere,” Mulade said. “This kind of exposure is critical to talent discovery and long-term development in the game.”
Mulade also expressed satisfaction with the performance of Nigerian teams participating in the tournament, noting that four teams—predominantly from the northern region of the country—are competing strongly and gaining valuable international exposure. According to him, such exposure gives young players a significant advantage in skill development and career progression.
He called on stakeholders in the Niger Delta, including political office holders, corporate organizations, and private investors, to prioritize grassroots sports development as a strategic tool for youth empowerment. He stressed that sustained investment in sports can help curb youth restiveness, create employment opportunities, and position the region as a hub for sports tourism.
The ongoing IberCup tournament in Portugal continues to serve as a melting pot of cultures and football excellence, reinforcing the importance of grassroots competitions in shaping the future of global football.
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(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, APRIL 4TH 2026)
