A new platform for nurturing football talent in Togo has officially kicked off in Lomé. Since Tuesday, around ten clubs from both the first and second divisions, along with local academies and training centers, have been competing in the inaugural edition of a talent identification tournament called “The Merit.”
The competition features two categories: under-19 (U19) and under-23 (U23), allowing a wide spectrum of young players to showcase their skills. Designed to spotlight emerging footballers, the tournament seeks to bridge the gap between grassroots development and professional opportunities, offering local talent a stage to be noticed by scouts and club officials.
Organized by DV Events and Sport, the initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage the development of local football. The tournament not only motivates young players to improve their abilities but also urges participating clubs to invest in youth development, ensuring the growth of football in the country. By highlighting promising players, “The Merit” aims to foster a culture of professionalism from an early age and to help talented individuals navigate a path toward higher levels of competition.
In addition to offering competitive matches, the tournament provides academies and training centers with opportunities to form strategic partnerships with recruiters and representatives from professional clubs. These collaborations can prove vital for young players aspiring to break into professional football, offering mentorship, guidance, and potentially trials with higher-level teams. Organizers hope that by connecting local talent with professional networks, they can create sustainable pathways for players to advance their careers.
The tournament has been structured to emphasize fair competition and technical development. Coaches, scouts, and referees are carefully selected to ensure that the event provides a high-quality, professional environment for the participants. Young athletes are encouraged not only to demonstrate their skills on the pitch but also to show discipline, teamwork, and strategic understanding—qualities that professional clubs value highly.
The first edition of “The Merit” will conclude next Friday, marking nearly a week of competitive matches, evaluation, and networking opportunities. Over the course of the tournament, players will gain valuable experience against peers from different clubs, exposing them to a variety of playing styles and tactical approaches. This exposure is expected to benefit their development, regardless of whether they are signed immediately by professional teams.
By combining competition with visibility, education, and professional outreach, “The Merit” represents an important step forward for football in Togo. Organizers hope that the tournament will not only highlight individual talent but also strengthen the local football ecosystem, inspiring other academies and clubs to invest in youth development programs and to participate in similar initiatives in the future.
In summary, “The Merit” talent identification tournament in Lomé brings together around ten clubs, academies, and training centers to showcase young footballers in the U19 and U23 categories. Organized by DV Events and Sport, the event aims to connect local talent with professional opportunities while encouraging youth development and partnerships that could help shape the next generation of Togolese football stars.
