Methodist High School and Owo High School will reignite one of the town’s most familiar rivalries on June 1 when they face off in the opening match of the 2026 Olowo’s Cup Football Tournament at the Owo Township Stadium. The fixture will launch a competition that will see more than 30 secondary schools from across Owo Kingdom compete for honours over the next three months.
The match marks the beginning of the fourth edition of the tournament since its revitalisation by the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegeshin Ogunoye III. Although the competition dates back more than 70 years, it has undergone significant expansion and restructuring since being repackaged seven years ago.
According to a statement signed by the Chairman of the Owo Sports Development Committee, Dr. Yinka Osho, and the Committee’s Secretary, Mr. Sunday Ijanawo, the tournament will run from June to August 2026.
The opening round of matches is scheduled to take place from June 1 to June 5, while the remaining Stage One fixtures will continue until June 26.
Organisers said the tournament is aimed at promoting youth development, sportsmanship and community engagement through grassroots football. It also provides a platform for young players from Owo and neighbouring communities to showcase their talents.
The opening fixture is expected to attract considerable attention, not only because of the rivalry between the two schools but also because the Olowo of Owo attended both institutions. Oba Ogunoye III began his secondary education at Methodist High School before completing it at Owo High School.
Hon. Ajibola Adetula Oludasa is the title sponsor of the tournament, with support from Oyin Waters, Rosco Waters, Rugibo Water Venture and other private-sector organisations.
In addition to football, other sporting events lined up as part of activities leading to the annual Igogo Festival include wrestling, table tennis, lawn tennis and scrabble. Wrestling is sponsored by Chief Oyepata Ineren, while the table tennis competition is sponsored by Chief Olawale Ijaware, the Aladaye of Owo Kingdom.
The finals of the various competitions will coincide with the Igogo Festival, one of the most celebrated cultural events in Owo Kingdom and a major attraction for visitors to the ancient town.
The Olowo’s Cup Football Tournament continues under its established theme: “One Goal, One Passion, One Champion.”