Rangers International U-16 have officially confirmed their participation in the 2025 edition of the FC Bayern Youth Cup Nigeria, set to take place from June 20 to 21 at the NITEL Playing Pitch in Oshodi, Lagos.
The Enugu-based outfit joins a host of top grassroots teams from across the country vying for a unique opportunity to showcase their talents before FC Bayern’s youth coaches, scouts, and legends in this prestigious international youth development tournament.
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Speaking with Sports247, Head Coach of Rangers U-16, Felix Nwosu, popularly known as Abacha expressed excitement about the competition and reaffirmed the team’s development-driven approach.
“This is a wonderful tournament that has helped many young Nigerian talents transition into mainstream European football,” Nwosu stated.
He emphasized that the team’s primary objective is not just to win the tournament, but to use the platform to expose promising players to international attention.
“It’s not all about lifting the trophy; our focus is on ensuring that one or two of our boys get scouted during the event. That would be the real victory,” he said. “We’ve carefully assembled some of the best young talents within the age bracket and are investing heavily to make this trip possible. We believe in the process.”
Launched in 2012, the FC Bayern Youth Cup is one of the longest-running international youth football competitions organized by a European club. Open exclusively to U-16 players, the tournament provides a rare opportunity for young talents worldwide to enter the FC Bayern Pathway — a structured development route from grassroots football to elite performance levels.
Over the years, the Youth Cup has featured more than 100,000 players from over 15 countries. More than 20 alumni have gone on to earn professional contracts or national team call-ups. Notable past participants include Daniel Francis, Kadir Can Gündogdu, Victor Orakpo, and Carlos Colina.
The competition, which is entirely free for players, prioritizes inclusivity and equal opportunity regardless of background. Following local scouting tournaments, standout players advance to a national final, where FC Bayern representatives select the top performers to represent their country at the World Final in Munich, Germany.
The World Final includes an immersive training camp at the FC Bayern Campus and culminates in a World Cup-style tournament hosted at the Adidas headquarters in Herzogenaurach.
With their sights set on more than just silverware, Rangers U-16 aim to make a lasting impression when the tournament kicks off in Lagos on June 20.
