Brazilian giants Esporte Clube Vitoria are set to take on the might of four top Nigerian clubs alongside three other African contenders in an eight-team tournament set to unfold in the heart of Nigeria later this year, Soccernet.ng reports.
Scheduled to kick off on August 1, 2024, in Enugu, Nigeria, the stage is being prepared for Nigeria’s inaugural Coal City International Cup, where eight elite teams will lock horns, eyeing glory and a substantial prize pool.
Esporte Clube Vitoria are the only representative from beyond African borders, securing an exclusive invitation to the inaugural edition of the Coal City International Cup.
Joining the Brazilian powerhouse are three esteemed African clubs: record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia, Sierra Leone’s FC Kallon, and Cotton FC from the Republic of Benin.
Nigeria, the host of the event, will be represented by the quartet of Enugu Rangers, Aba Elephants’ Enyimba, Kano Pillars, and Ogun State-based Remo Stars.
Spearheaded by the Enugu State government, the tournament not only promises thrilling football action but also seeks to invigorate the region’s entertainment and economic landscapes.
Ifeanyi Ogbu, spokesperson for the competition, revealed that the tournament will unfold over nine match days at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.
Each participating team is guaranteed a generous appearance fee of N5 million per match, ensuring a minimum payday of N15 million for every club after a minimum of three matches.
“The financial incentives are substantial, not only for the clubs but also for the state, which expects to generate approximately N3.5 billion by the end of the tournament,” Ogbu told The Nation.
The coveted grand prize beckons with a tantalizing N50 million up for grabs for the champions, while the runner-up will pocket a respectable N10 million.
Brazil’s Vitória boast a rich history dating back to its establishment on May 13, 1899, in Salvador, Bahia.
Following their emergence as Serie B champions in 2023, the Red and Black brigade now grace the hallowed grounds of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A.
The Brazilians will test their might against reigning Nigerian champions Enyimba and four-time NPFL kings Kano Pillars.
Enugu Rangers are the hosts, while Kenya’s Gor Mahia will be one of the favourites to win the tournament.