After the success of the 2019 season, CK Gefane FC aimed to push beyond the local competition and take on the challenge of competing on the international stage. The year 2020 saw the club take a significant leap in its evolution by entering international youth tournaments, where they were able to measure their progress against some of the best teams from around the world.

The First International Tournament: The Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Summit Youth Championship

The club’s first major international foray came when they participated in the Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Summit Youth Championship, held in St. Petersburg, Russia. This was a milestone moment for CK Gefane FC, as it marked the club’s entry into a more competitive arena where the level of talent and competition was significantly higher.

Coach’s Reflection:

“The Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Summit Youth Championship was a game-changer for us. It exposed our players to a completely different level of football and helped them realize the importance of hard work and discipline. It was a tough tournament, but the experience they gained was invaluable.” – Coach Abiola Adeyemi

The Tournament Experience

At the African Youth Championships, CK Gefane FC’s players faced off against three teams from Russia, one from Cameroun, one from Ghana. While the team did not secure a podium finish, Olatunde-Matthew won the tournament's most valuable player. The team also gained invaluable experience that they carried forward into future seasons. Matches against teams with different playing styles helped develop the players’ adaptability, and their performance in the tournament earned respect from scouts and fellow teams.

One of the standout players was Olatunde-Matthew, who was consistently recognized as one of the best players in the tournament. His outstanding performances and leadership on the pitch were integral to the team’s defensive strength. In all the matches. 

Player Testimony: 

“Playing against international teams was an eye-opening experience for me. I realized how much further I needed to go, but it also showed me how much potential I had. I’ll always be thankful for that opportunity.” – Olatunde-Matthew (CK Gefane FC Defensive Midfielder)

International Exposure and Networking

The 2020 tournament also allowed CK Gefane FC’s players and coaches to network with international scouts, agents, and coaches, raising the club’s profile on the global stage. Several players caught the attention of scouts from top Russian clubs, as well as European teams, who recognized the raw talent and potential of the players.

For many of the players, the tournament was a chance to showcase their skills on a bigger stage, and for the coaches, it provided a clearer understanding of what was needed to develop world-class footballers.

Impact on the Club's Growth

CK Gefane FC’s participation in international tournaments like the The Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Summit Youth Championship helped the club gain visibility, attract sponsors, and improve its infrastructure. As a result, the club began to attract top-tier coaching staff, provided advanced training programs, and started investing in scouting and player development.

This period marked a turning point for CK Gefane FC, as it transformed from a small, locally-focused club into a promising academy with international aspirations.