Okocha, Eto’o, and Adebayor to Play in Mogadishu Stadium Highlight Peace Progress

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia’s national stadium will come alive today as Mogadishu hosts a landmark football match between local stars and foreign-based players, in an event aimed at showcasing the country’s growing stability and sporting ambition.

The friendly will see Somali national athletes and veteran sports figures take on a visiting side made up of international players currently active in Somalia, alongside high-profile African football icons, including Nigeria’s Jay-Jay Okocha, Cameroon’s Samuel Eto’o, and Togo’s Emmanuel Adebayor.

The guest team will be led by Minister of Youth and Sports Mohamed Abdulkadir Ali, who is serving as the official host under government protocol.

Officials say the match is more than just a game—it is a symbol of Somalia’s recovery and a message to the world that peace and sport are returning to the capital.

“The presence of international legends in Mogadishu sends a powerful message,” the Ministry of Sports said in a statement. “It highlights Somalia’s progress on the path to stability, and the resilience of our youth through sports.”

Fans have been urged to arrive early for security screenings and to follow all safety protocols. Authorities are calling for calm and cooperation to ensure the match proceeds smoothly and becomes a celebration of unity and hope.

The event marks one of the highest-profile sporting gatherings in Somalia in years, and is part of broader efforts by the government to use sports as a tool for peacebuilding, youth empowerment, and international engagement.