Dino SC, Beyond Limits rekindle rivalries at Lagos Supremacy Cup final

 

The 2024 Lagos Supremacy Cup final will feature the reigning champions Dino SC going head-to-head with the Viareggio Cup victors Beyond Limits at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Saturday morning. Kickoff is 9:50am Nigerian time.

In the third-place playoff, Charlesann will challenge 36 Lion. The match underway at 8am.

Teams competed fiercely on Friday, aiming to impress the scouts in attendance.

Here’s a recap of Day 3:

Dino SC 3-2 Ikorodu City

Despite a brace from Wisdom Ubani, Ikorodu City fell short, losing 3-2 to Dino SC. Dino SC finished at the top of Group A with 10 points out of a possible 12.

Seamoriow 1-1 FC Bethel

FC Bethel initially took the lead with a goal from Ojo Jordan, but Seamoriow equalized through Quadri Adewuyi, who found the far left corner.

Broad City 1-0 Real Sapphire

A 5th-minute goal from Terhide David was sufficient for Broad City to secure a narrow victory over Real Sapphire.

MS Success 0-3 Charlesann

Charlesann capitalized on a poor defensive performance from MS Success, with goals from Sunday Jones, Uche Jones, and Akolawole Lateef leading to a 3-0 triumph. With six points and a goal difference of +3, Charlesann awaited the outcome of the Beyond Limits vs FC Bethel match to determine their fate in Group B.

36 Lion 1-1 Ikorodu City 

Samson Akinyoola's late goal secured a well-deserved point for 36 Lion in their match against Ikorodu City. Ahmed Malik opened the scoring in the 45th minute, capitalizing on a rebound after goalkeeper Samuel Oriola saved his initial penalty attempt. This result allowed 36 Lion, in second place, to secure a playoff spot for third place with a total of seven points from four matches.

Beyond Limits Football Academy 1-1 FC Bethel 

In another thrilling encounter, Beyond Limits managed to draw 3-3 with FC Bethel, thanks to Abiodun Toheeb's equalizer in the 52nd minute. The match was action-packed from the start, with Akinsipe Amos scoring in the 18th minute. 

Ojo Jordan seemed to give Bethel the upper hand by scoring after a rebound from goalkeeper Daniel Aiyenugba. Toheeb's goal reignited hope for Beyond Limits, but Uchenna Marizu restored Bethel's two-goal lead shortly after. 

However, in a dramatic finish, Ogunniyi Oluwaseyi and Toheeb scored to level the match. The result was disappointing for FC Bethel, who finished third with six points (+2), while Beyond Limits topped the group with eight points from four matches.

Day 3 Results:

Dino SC 3-2 Ikorodu City

Seamoriow 1-1 FC Bethel

Broad City 1-0 Real Sapphire

MS Success 0-3 Charlesann

36 Lion 1-1 Ikorodu City

Beyond Limits Football Academy 3-3 FC Bethel

Top football scouts to harness talents at 19th Lagos Supremacy Cup

 

Ten international scouts have received visas to attend the 19th edition of the Lagos Supremacy Cup.

Cem Sagar, the coordinator for expatriates and head of Diamond Sports Management, will be accompanied by nine additional scouts to Lagos for this esteemed tournament.

Among those confirmed for the event are Dan Smejkal, Tomas Syrovatka, Pape Cissokho, Toni Bilandzic, Dennys Dilettosso, Nenad Sarcevic, Zdenek Mikyska, Jan Prosek, and Florin Biba.

The tournament is set to take place from November 27th to 30th at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

Organizers have indicated that the scouting tournament will feature some of the top grassroots teams.

Cem emphasized that the purpose of the program is to identify talent at the grassroots level and provide them with opportunities to play internationally.

He stated, "Our goal is to discover talent and promote them to European markets."

"This is why nine additional scouts have been confirmed for the event."

Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) Chairman, Hajji Olawale Liameed Gafar, who is the Chief Convener of the highly anticipated tournament, shared that each match will consist of two halves lasting 30 minutes each. Notably, there will be no offside calls during the games, which is expected to minimize unnecessary stoppages and increase both playtime and scoring opportunities.

In discussing the significance of the tournament for the advancement of football in Nigeria, he emphasized that only 69 youth players can represent the national U15, U17, and U20 teams in any given generation.

"Our primary goal is to create more opportunities for youth footballers in Nigeria. We have only three youth national teams: U-15, U-17, and U-20. Each of these teams can only feature 23 players per tournament per generation. What happens to the remaining one million active semi-professional players?"

"The solution lies in the Lagos Supremacy Cup. While the 10 teams participating in this tournament do not encompass the entirety of Nigeria's youth football landscape, they have been carefully selected based on their track records in identifying and nurturing top talent," he added.

The tournament will include defending champions Dino FC, Ikorodu City FC, Broad City FC, and Real Saphire FC, along with Beyond Limits FC, Seamoriow FC, 36 Lion, Bethel FC, MS Success FC, and Charlesann FC.

LSFA sets certificate benchmark for football coaches, sign pact with NIS

 

The Lagos State Football Association has added to his success stories by ensuring the implementation of the MOU signed with the Nigeria Institute of Sports over the certification of coaches that does not have the prerequisites and necessary qualifications to obtain a licence from the State FA.

Coaches in Lagos State were invited to the Football House at Ogunlana Drive Surulere Lagos to parley over this remarkable feat which is aimed not just to be certified or licensed coaches but to ensure international best practices.

The NIS Representatives led by the Registrar shed more light on the MOU with LSFA and encouraged all the coaches to key into this laudable initiative.

The FA Chairman, Liameed Gafar acknowledged the important roles played by the Lagos State Government under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu and Lagos State Sports Commission in creating enabling environment for the continuous development of football through the numerous rehabilitation and reconstruction of various Stadia in the State. He also charged the coaches the importance of this partnership with NIS. 

The Lagos State Football Association and NIS has agreed that the sum of 25,000 will be paid by coaches who do not have any certificate from NIS to undergo the training and 5,000 to get the Coaching License. The training will be done in batches and he promised that between now and the next two years, over 2000 coaches would have been trained, certified and licensed to be able to operate in Lagos State.

Additionally, that efforts will be made to collaborate with other Southwest States over the capacity building and having uniform licensing in order to operate in the region.

Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup: FC Nwosu advance, as highly fancied FC Udeze kiss the canvass

 

The Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup quarter-finals delivered a Tuesday of exhilarating football action, leaving fans on the edge of their seats with unforgettable moments. 

Let's recap the thrilling encounters that unfolded:

FC Agbai 4-1 FC Ipaye 

FC Agbai pulled off a remarkable upset against FC Ipaye, securing their spot in the semi-finals.

In a nail-biting game at Legacy Pitch, Onojah Godwin and ThankGod Essein scored two goals each for FC Agbai while Gabriel Adewara registered what turned out to be a consolation for the losing team.

FC Udeze 1-1 FC Ekpo AP (7-8)

FC Udeze and FC Ekpo dished out a classic encounter, producing a thriller that ended 1-1 at the end of 90 minutes. into penalties. 

Friday Ekpo's boys did well to win 8-7 on penalties to seal their place in the semi-finals.

FC Agali 2-2 FC Obafemi AP (4-3)

In a captivating clash, FC Agali showcased their resilience and determination, scoring thanks to Aliu Hassan and Adetona Lekan. Onuoha Kingsley and substitute Obinna Romans were on target for FC Obafemi. 

FC Agali's never-say-die attitude propelled them into the semi-finals in dramatic fashion. They won 4-3 on penalties.

FC Nwosu 1-0 FC Ugbade 

Henry Nwosu's wards continued their impressive run, defeating highly rated FC Ugbade  1-0 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. Kingsley Chibueze proved to be the hero for FC Nwosu, as his 28th minute goal paved the way for their journey to the semi-finals.

Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup Cup Semi-Finals:

The stage is set for the semi-finals, with four elite teams ready to battle it out at Legacy Pitch on Friday 28th June.

Below are the fixtures:

FC Agali Vs FC Ekpo 

9am

FC Agbai Vs FC Nwosu

11am

Football fans can expect nothing short of pure excitement and anticipation as these titans clash in pursuit of Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup glory.

The Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup, an initiative of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) is proudly supported by leading gaming company, Bet9ja. 

Other partners are Owu, a foremost sportswear company in Nigeria, Brila FM, Mavlon FC, Mr. Olusola Akinlade, Liigi League, Olafiranye Sports Foundation and Mr. Mahmud Dawodu.

LSFA hammer falls on 'Gattuso'

 

The Nigeria Ex-Internationals Cup was conceptualized as a national platform starting from Lagos State and protected brand whose purpose is to enable renowned ex-internationals’ act as Coach Mentors and to connect, collaborate and contribute to sustainable football development and promotion.

For the purpose of this tournament, established teams were adopted by the ex-internationals and these teams bear the names of the Legends.

It is quite sad that at two venues (Hilario Campos Mini Stadium and Rehabilitation Centre, Isheri-Berger) on Friday, 21st June, 2024, cases of violence were recorded, which could have been avoided. 

The Lagos State Football Association frowns at this and based on the match reports, have decided on the following sanctions for the initiators of the ugly incidences, that have brought the game into disrepute, more so, in the eyes of foreign scouts who are present to help grow the career of our footballing youths.

FC DOSU vs FC AGALI, at The Rehabilitation Centre, Isheri-Berger

FINDINGS

1. The match ended 2-0 in favour of FC AGALI, who lost their home leg 3-2.

2. Violence was led by a supposed supporter of FC DOSU, Mr. Musa Sunday (a.k.a. YARO), a serial trouble maker, whom on various occasions at the same venue had instigated violence, held up and disrupted matches and continued being a pain with a retrogressive footballing label over a number of years.

3. He led a group of boys armed with cutlasses and other dangerous weapons to attack the match officials and tournament organisers, including their own team officials, claiming that the match officials did not give enough playing time.

DECISIONS

1. In view of his antecedents and latest actions, Musa Sunday is hereby banned from all footballing activities and sporting arenas in Lagos State for a period of TWO (2) YEARS. 

2. He is also required to pay for the treatment and recuperation of all the assaulted persons.

3. A report on Musa Sunday will be sent to the Office of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police for appropriate actions.

FC AMOO vs FC NWOSU, at the Hilario Campos Mini Stadium, Lagos Island

FINDINGS

1. The match was interrupted on two occasions but finally concluded with FC NWOSU winning via penalties.

2. FC AMOO adopted the team, G12 FC. It was quite a regrettable sight to see the CEO of G12 FC, Mr. Hakeem Mustapha (a.k.a., GATTUSO), instigate their club fans towards violence where various forms of charms and weapons were brandished.

3. Activation of emergency deployment of a team of armed policemen to avert any loss of lives and further property.

DECISION

1. Mr. Hakeem Mustapha, one of the major stakeholders in Lagos State football is hereby banned from all footballing activities within Lagos State for ONE (1) YEAR.

The above decision is without prejudice to the right of appeal on or before Wednesday, June 26, 2024.

Adedotun Coker Vice-Chairman Lagos State Football Association

FC Nwosu, Agali FC, three others secure quarterfinal berths in Ex Internationals Cup

 

FC Nwosu are through to the quarter-final of the Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup after dramatically edging FC Amoo 10-9 on penalties.

The star studded FC Nwosu got their goals from Namory Keita and Ishola Olaitan, while FC Amoo netted thanks to Mubarak Mustapha's brace. It meant the game was 3-3 on aggregate.

Goalkeeper Samuel Oriola was the hero in the shootout.

FC Dosu 0-2 FC Agali

FC Agali stunned FC Dosu 2-0 to march on against all odds. The tricky pairing ended 4-3 on aggregate.

Victor Agali's wards cruised to the win courtesy of brace from Aliyu Hassan. 

FC Oloyede 0-0 FC Agbai 

FC Agbai progressed to the next round after drawing 0-0 against FC Oloyode. It was a 3-0 aggregate win for the former.

FC Dominic 0-0 FC Ugbade

FC Dominic and FC Ugbade played a goalless draw but the latter surged ahead 1-0 on aggregate.

Quarter-Final Pairings

FC Agali vs FC Ayila/FC Obafemi 

FC Ekpo vs FC Udeze/FC Okpara 

FC Agbai vs FC Ipaye/FC Ikpeba 

FC Nwosu vs FC Ugbade 

All the matches are billed for Tuesday 25th June. The games will hold at Mobolaji Johnson Arena and Legacy Pitch.

The Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup, is proudly supported by leading gaming company, Bet9ja. 

Other partners are Owu, a foremost sportswear company in Nigeria, Brila FM, Mavlon FC, Mr. Olusola Akinlade, Liigi League, Olafiranye Sports Foundation and Mr. Mahmud Dawodu.

Ex Internationals Cup: FC Udeze humbles FC Okpara as Ikpeba boys, FC Ipaye share spoils

 

It was another day of exciting matches, impressive performances and positive outings at the on Ex Internationals Cup organized by the Lagos State Football Association, LSFA. 

Four games were decided on Wednesday at various centres with FC Udeze recording the biggest win over FC Okpara. 

Here is the wrap for the Matchday:

FC Udeze 4-1 FC Okpara 

Stephen Okpeche, Rashidi Anifowoshe and Olakunle Irinyemi were among the scorers as FC Udeze took a huge step towards the Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup quarter-finals courtesy of a blistering 4-1 win over 10-man FC Okpara in their last-16 first leg.

FC Udeze drew the first blood through Okpeche's delicious free kick. 

FC Okpara were awarded a penalty kick on 10 minutes. Johnson Adeaga rarely lets such go unpunished, and he delivered the goods to level matters. 

The homers looked the much more likely to score, though, and they did so again shortly before the break. Anifowoshe drove home a world class free kick to find the back of the net.

The Godwin Okpara managed team were no doubt relieved to get a breather at half-time. But things was made complicated for the former PSG man's wards, when Oriyomi Adesegun was given the marching orders in the 55th minute.

Former PAOK and Super Eagles overlapping left back, Ifeanyi Udeze kept on urging his wards to go for more like Oliver Twist. They broke in thrilling fashion from another set-piece to leave the away side shell-shocked once again. Olakunle sent home in excellent fashion.

Okpeche got his brace eight minutes after the hour mark.

The frenetic pace dropped a bit thereafter, with FC Okpara limiting the damage, and only a freak result in the return leg can now prevent Udeze's side from reaching the last eight.

FC Nwosu 1-1 FC Amoo

FC Nwosu and FC Amoo drew 1-1, after strikes by Friday Jatau and Samson Akinyoola. Jatau put FC Amoo ahead with a chip into the top corner in the first half and Zamalek star Akinyoola equalized for the hosts with a one-time  strike from a goal mouth scramble.

FC Ikpeba 1-1 FC Ipaye 

FC Ipaye withstood waves of FC Ikpeba attacks to claim a 1-1 draw.

Ayodele Isiah powered FC Ikpeba ahead from the penalty spot.

But Ipaye dominated the second half and scored a deserved equaliser through Biokpo MacLean's volley.

FC Ugbade 1-0 FC Dominic

Simon Cletus scored a 15th minute penalty to earn hosts FC Ugbade a 1-0 victory over FC Dominic.

Cletus converted his spot-kick after defender Osha Wasiu handled the ball in the box. 

Disciplined FC Ugbade stifled the visiting side's attacks and FC Dominic were toothless throughout the match.

The Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup, is proudly supported by leading gaming company, Bet9ja. 

Other partners are Owu, a foremost sportswear company in Nigeria, Brila FM, Mavlon FC, Mr. Olusola Akinlade, Liigi League, Olafiranye Sports Foundation and Mr. Mahmud Dawo

du.

Ipaye beats Babington 8-7 on penalties, reaches Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup round of 16

 

FC Ipaye beat FC Babington 8-7 in a penalty shootout on Monday to reach the round 16 of the Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup.

10-man FC Babington looked to be on course for victory courtesy of Oyedokun Tosin's early opener, but Gabriel Adewara rescued on the hour before FC Ipaye triumphed in the shootout.

Babington were ahead after just 12 minutes, though, as FC Ipaye failed to adequately clear their lines, allowing Oyedokun to open the scoring.

Lucky Odia was the next to come close for the visitors, but chances were at a premium throughout the first half and the game went into the break at 0-1.

Ipaye struggled to conjure up many clear chances, but they almost levelled things up with just over 10 minutes into the second half.

 

There was nothing goalkeeper Damilare Aina could do when the equaliser eventually came, though, with Adewara converting from a free kick in the 60th minute of action.

In the 75th minute, Austin Harrison of FC Babington was sent off for illegally thwarting a goal bound move.

In response, FC Ipaye increased the pressure further but despite a glut of openings, they lacked a cutting edge and tiring FC Babington did just enough to force penalties.

During the thrilling shootout, FC Ipaye won 8-7 and crossed over to the next phase of the tournament.

In the day's other game, FC Enegwae pipped hardfighting FC Ekpo 1-0. 

FC Enagwae played much better and had opportunities. They were rewarded with the winner thanks to Morris Ali.

Mavlon FC, Brila FM, Olafiranye Sports Foundation and Mr. Mahmud Dawodu are partners of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) organized tournament.

Others are Bet9ja, Mr. Olusola Akinlade and LiiGi League.

Bet9ja is the registered trading name of the KC Gaming Networks Limited. The brand hold licenses to operate in all states where sports betting is permitted in Nigeria. They cover all the major sporting events across Europe and the world and guarantees payouts on all winning bets.

FC Agbai, Ekpo FC record comfortable victories as Ex Internationals Cup returns

 

Hostilities continued at the Maiden edition of Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup with some spicy games on Thursday.

FC Agbai hosted FC Temile in an affair that turned out to be one sided.

Quickfire goals from Ajiboye Israel and ThankGod Essien handed FC Agbai the advantage after 10 minutes.

Fuad Kaffo completed the rout five minutes after the hour mark as the tie ended 3-0.

It was "Rumble in the Jungle" as FC Ekpo and FC Akanni battled for supremacy.

Richard Zoje nodded home the curtain raiser in the 19th minute for FC Ekpo.

The lead was increased thanks to a volley on the part of Daniel Joda. 

FC Akanni tried to fight back but they were repelled by FC Ekpo who won 2-0.

Up next on the schedule was the game between FC Nieketein and FC Ugbade which the former won 1-0.

Meanwhile, FC Odini and FC Ikpeba shared the spoils in a goalless draw.

Mavlon FC, Brila FM, Olafiranye Sports Foundation and Mr. Mahmud Dawodu are partners of the Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup.

Others are Bet9ja, Mr. Olusola Akinlade and LiiGi League.

Bet9ja is the registered trading name of the KC Gaming Networks Limited. The brand hold licenses to operate in all states where sports betting is permitted in Nigeria. They cover all the major sporting events across Europe and the world and guarantees payouts on all winning bets.

Ex International Cup kics off on Saturday in Lagos

 

The eargerly-awaited Ex-Internationals Cup organised by Lagos State Football Association kicks off Saturday, with three matches to be played on Matchday One, in two different centres.

In the opening match, FC Ugbade would play host to FC Nieketein at the Nitel ground, Oshodi, at 7am.

Other Matchday One games would hold at Legacy pitch Surulere, as FC Omoruyi and FC Obafemi trade tackles at 10am, while FC Elaho and FC Udeze do battle on the same pitch at 12 noon.

According to the organisers, the tournament which would see 32 Lagos based ex-Nigeria internationals adopting various teams purposedly for the tournament, would be played on a home and away knockout basis across different playgrounds including Legacy Pitch, Nitel Ground, Maracana Stadium, Victor Agali Stadium, Jalisco Stadium, amongst other Stadia.

Speaking on the historic tournament, Chairman of the organising committee, Engr. Waidi Akanni, said the tournament is expected to have these retired national teams players on the touchlines, ditching out tactical instructions to their various adopted teams, as coach-mentor.

"This is historic and unprecedented, as football fans would have the opportunity to see their once favourite players, passing on instructions to the younger players during the tournament," he remarked excitedly.

"This is a well-planned and unique tournament. Already, the 32 teams have been fully kitted and of course by Owu Sportswear, with adequate logistics arrangement to make it hitch-free," Akanni, a former Chairman of LSFA disclosed.

While assuring soccer fans, players and officials of a top quality organisation, he also enthused that the tournament is expected to set an enviable benchmark for grassroots football development.

Lagos FA Boss, nine other FA Chairmen visit recuperating Tijani Babangida

 

Chairman of Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed, Friday morning, joined the delegation of nine other States FA Chairmen including Kwara, Jigawa, Yobe, Benue, amongst others, in paying a condolence visit to the grieving and recuperating PFAN President Tijani Babangida, MON.

It could be recalled that the former Super Eagles and Ajax Amsterdam star was involved in a ghastly accident on the Kaduna-Zaria road, which claimed the lives of his younger brother Ibrahim and his one- year old son.

The States FA bosses while condoling with Babangida, who also sustained a serious leg injury, prayed that God grant him and his family, the strength and fortitude to bear the losses.

On his part, Hajji Gafar, noted that football as the world's most unifying factor, should continued to be used to further promote peace, unity and progress, amongst the people.

LSFA denies claims of litigation disrupting football activities in Lagos State

 The leadership of Lagos State Football Association, LSFA has denied purported rumours of court cases facing the association that has caused breakdown in it's activities. 

In a statement signed by the chairman of the association, Alhaji Gaffar Liameed, there was nothing like courts issues with any group of persons, organization or individual. 

The statement confirmed that the only law suit it's aware of was the one concerning 13 individual members of the association challenging their eligibility and has advised it's affected members to seek redress to allow rule of law be respected. 

The statement read:

It has been brought to the attention of the Board Members of the Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) that there are reports going round about its being embroiled in a court case, thus leading to a disruption in footballing activities at the headquarters in Surulere. 

We would like to set the records straight by stating that the LSFA is not involved in any court case with any individual or organization by whatsoever name called. 

The LSFA is not and has not been made a party to any court dispute. Therefore footballing activities in and around the LSFA headquarters are ongoing and peaceful too. 

Be that as it may, the LSFA is aware that a lawsuit was instituted against the thirteen (13) individual members of the LSFA State Congress, whereby the exercise of their statutory powers, as conferred on them by the LSFA statutes, is being challenged in court. 

As a law abiding corporate citizen, the LSFA is mindful of the fact that the law must take its place and this is done by encouraging the Congress members to seek justice through the appropriate channels and in line with the procedures laid down and available in our judicial system. 

The Congress members have engaged professional legal representation and are confident in the ability of their legal representation to see that justice is dispensed in the most efficient manner. 

The LSFA however, is a going concern, still charged with the responsibility of effectively administering the business of footballing activities in the State. 

There is no disruption whatsoever to the administrative functions of the LSFA and we call on all football stakeholders in the State to carry on with their duties and interactions with the LSFA without fear or apprehension. 

Thank you. 

Signed.

Chairman, Lagos State Football Association.

Fouad Oki drags LSFA Board to Lagos State Police Command

 

Former Chairman of Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), Ogboni Fouad Oki in another futile attempt to stop football administration and its development, has dragged congress members of the LSFA to the Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja, on several spurious allegations.

Chairman of LSFA, Hajji Gafar Liameed, Friday morning, led other congress members on invitation of the Lagos State Deputy Commissioner, Operations, DCP Fatai Tijani, to defend the petition written against the congress. 

Oki had alleged in his petition to the Police that he was physically attacked and severely injured by over 30 officers from the DSS, on the orders of the LSFA Chairman, Gafar.

However, the petitioner, Fouad Oki, refused to show up at the Police Command. 

It would be recalled that he (Oki) had earlier charged members of the congress to a civil court, which is contrary to the statutes governing the game globally. 

Lagos FA hold draws for Ex-Internationals Cup

 

Lagos State Football Association (LSFA), the organisers of the maiden Nigeria Ex-Internationals Cup, Friday, at its Surulere office, held a press conference to unveil the tournament and the draws for the matches, slated for June 1st to 30th, across different centres in Lagos. 

At the well-attended event of the epochal tournament which was witnessed by several ex-Nigeria international players and the media, Chairman of LSFA, Hajji Gafar Liameed told the excited audience, the reasons behind organising the tournament. 

"Football belongs to footballers. They are the custodians of the beautiful game," Gafar began. 

"For so long a time, our retired football stars have been kept in the shadows. Now, it's time for them to return and enjoy the limelight, once again," he stated.

"This tournament is essentially, aimed at bringing our ex-international players, back to the beautiful game. However, this time, they are coming as Coach- Mentor," the highly-regarded football administrator added. 

Speaking further on the tournament, Vice-Chairman of Lagos FA, Adedotun Coker, explained that the tournament which is expected to feature 32 teams, would be played on a home and away knockout basis, from the preliminaries to the quater-finals, that would be played at the prestigious Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos. 

Chairman of the tournament organising committee, Engr. Waidi Akanni, disclosed that the 32 ex-international players listed to participate are expected to form or adopt a team in their locality, and play the roles of the team's coach. 

Akanni, a former Lagos FA boss and Chief Executive Officer of Match International Limited, went ahead to disclose to the obviously delighted ex-international players that plans are ongoing to make the tournament, a most memorable one for everyone, even as all the teams and officials, shall be fully kitted by one of Nigeria's foremost sportswear companies.

Some of the ex-international players in attendance include, Peter Rufai, Franklin Howard, Friday Elahor, Taiwo Oloyede, Jide Oguntuase and Taiwo Enegwa.

Others are Friday Elahor, Edema Benson, Peter Nieketein, Loveday Omoruyi, Monday Kanu and Festus Odini.

Round Of 32 Fixtures

FC Victor Agali Vs FC Yakubu Aiyegbeni

FC Jide Oguntuase Vs FC Dosu Joseph

FC Alloy Agu Vs FC Yusuf Ayila

FC Loveday Omoruyi Vs FC Abiodun Obafemi 

FC Taiwo Enegwa Vs FC Edema Benson

FC Waidi Akanni Vs FC Friday Ekpo

FC Friday Elahor Vs FC Ifeanyi Udeze

FC Godwin Okpara Vs FC Peter Rufai

FC Clement Temile Vs FC Mba Agbai

FC Taribo West Vs FC Taiwo Oloyede 

FC Victor Ikpeba Vs FC Festus Odinni

FC Bode Babington Vs FC Wasiu Ipaye

FC Fatai Amoo Vs FC Ifeanyi Emeghara 

FC Tajudeen Disu Vs FC Henry Nwosu

FC Nduka Ugbade Vs FC Peter Nieketen

FC Joseph Yobo Vs FC Michael Dominic

LSFA Boss, Hajj Gafar Liameed hails initiative of Dozy Mmobuosi's initiative with Tingo Energy Drinks

 

If Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) Chairman, Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed was a man of many words, he would have described the latest project of Dozy Mmobuosi - in the most colourful superlatives of adjectives. 

Some of the projects: Tingo Mobile to provide mobile technology and Fintech solutions to rural communities in Nigeria. Tingo Inc., a publicly traded company on the OTC Markets Group and Nwassa, a digital Agri-Marketplace that is Africa’s first agricultural technology and digital platform.

Following launch of Tingo Cola, Ojaja Bitters and Tingo Electric Energy Drinks in Victoria Island on Tuesday, an elated Hajji Gafar subtly described Dozy Mmobuosi as a true investor.

"Mr Dozy Mmobuosi is an example of a real investor and we should all commend him for his contribution to the society at large," the impressed and excited Hajji Gafar said to LSFA Media.

"I strongly believe that the projects launched today are great contributions to the national development of Nigeria. And that's what the administration of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands for.

Brimming with optimism, Hajji Gafar believes that the projects will secure future prosperity, pointing out that more investments by well meaning individuals would strengthen the social and physical infrastructure base of Nigeria.

It would be recalled that Dozy Mmbousi Foundation sponsored the NPFL/Dozy Mmobuosi Super 4 and Tingo Super 8 Cup in the past. The two tournaments were deemed successful by football stakeholders in Nigeria.

Hajji Gafar reiterated the LSFA's desire to be a partner of Tingo.

"At LSFA we are partners in progress. This invitation by Tingo is a special feeling for us and we would like to take this relationship to the next level; as we line up numerous football programs for Lagosians," he added.

Grinning with delight, Hajj Gafar, dignitaries like Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II) and some eminent men of the society were present at the colourful event.

Lagos FA Boss hails Manu Garba's appointment as Golden Eaglets' coach

Lagos State Football Association Chairman, Hajji Liameed Olawale Gafar, has congratulated Manu Garba, on his appointment as the new head coach of the Nigeria U17 national football team, the Golden Eaglets. 

Manu Garba's first tenure as Eaglets Manager saw him handling footballers such as Taiwo Awoniyi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Isaac Success, Francis Uzoho, Chidiebere Nwakali and Musa Muhammed to victory at the 2013 FIFA U17 World Cup.

 

According to Hajji Gafar, he believes that this experience makes Manu Garba the ideal candidate to lead the Golden Eaglets to new heights.

The coach who returns for his third stint with the team has been saddled with the responsibility of leading the current crop of players to next month's WAFU B U17 Championship which serves as qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) recently appointed the former Flying Eagles manager as the Golden Eaglets' head coach.

Hajji Gafar harped on the need to make talents discovered at the NFF/NPFL U17 Youth League a priority by the gaffer. 

"I would like to congratulate you (Manu Garba) on your appointment as the new head coach of the Golden Eaglets," said Hajji Gafar, NFF/NPFL Youth Development Coordinator (Southwest Zone).

"I strongly believe your rich experience in coaching young talents will propel our development football brand, the Golden Eaglets, to the pedestal we have always desired it to be."

"I urge you to strive for nothing but excellence, be open to constructive criticisms and be your own man.

"The leadership of NFF has set the ball rolling through NPFL before appointing Manu Garba so the screening exercise for players should be a walk in the park. 

"I appeal that the new U17 team should be built around NPFL Youth League players across Nigeria. 

"The 17 top talents from the Southwest zone include Abiodun Olawoye (Shooting Stars), Oguniran Mujeeb Tomiwa (Shooting Stars), Samad Adekunle (Shooting Stars), Taofeek Afolabi Samad (Shooting Stars), Aribo Faith (Remo Stars), Olasunkanmi Abass (Remo Stars), Adejimi Peter (Remo Stars), Olatunji Olamilekan (Remo Stars) and Olaniyo Precious (Remo Stars)." 

"Others are Yusuf Abdullahi (Sporting Lagos), Oluwaseun Akanji (Sporting Lagos), Edward Ochigbo (Sporting Lagos), Naziru Yusuf (Sporting Lagos), Michael Awelewa (Sporting Lagos), Samuel Ita Umoh (Sporting Lagos), Afolabi Omobolaji Oluwasegun (Sunshine Stars) and Kehinde Oluwole (Sunshine Stars)."

"This should enable NFF/NPFL clubs and coaches of these young prodigies benefit fully from where they've been sowing," Hajji Gafar concluded.

Lagos FA floats tournament to celebrate ex international footballers

The Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) has concluded plans to organize a big tournament involving Nigeria ex internationals.

This was revealed by LSFA Chairman Hajj Gafar Olawale Liameed on Thursday morning.

"We believe in our ex players. LSFA is determined to carry along ex internationals and drive the game forward at every level," LSFA Chairman Hajj Gafar began.

"The tournament will see former Nigeria internationals based in Lagos adopt teams. For instance if an ex international is based in the area of Dino SC he can adopt them. 

"The competition tagged 'The Nigeria Ex Internationals Cup'  would see teams play on home and away basis in the first phase before we proceed to the knockout stage.

"We want to have a clear identity and organize lots of programs. This is one of our innovations and we hope to take blessings from the Lagos State Government and Nigeria Football Federation," the football technocrat enthused.

Hajj Gafar also reiterated LSFA's commitments to proper development of football in the centre of excellence.

"We're determined to lead that development at every level and have created a robust plan for doing so using all our resources and knowledge."

Meanwhile, former Nigeria internationals like Joseph Yobo, Yakubu Aiyegbeni and Wasiu Ipaye have already thrown their weight behind the innovation by the LSFA.

Revealed! Major reasons Fouad Oki was impeached as Lagos FA Chairman

 

Contrary to insinuations in some quarter that the Extraordinary General Assembly of the Lagos State Football Association acted arbitrarily in the impeachment of the former chairman of the association, Mr Fouad Oki, documents obtained by this newspaper have shown the real reasons the politician cum football administrator was sacked by the Congress on Saturday.

Early on Saturday, the Executive Committee of the LSFA met for an emergency meeting, and a resolution was passed by 10 out of 12 members of the Executive Committee to suspend Chairman Oki before the Congress.

Later on, that same Saturday, Oki was reportedly impeached and banned for life during an Extraordinary General Assembly of the LSFA where 12 out of 14 statutory members of the Assembly voted in favour of his impeachment.

However, a look at the Statutes of the LSFA shows that Found Oki might have grossly violated some of the statutes that prompted his sack. For record purposes, the below findings are the sins of the former chairman that escalated the leadership crisis in the Lagos FA and led to the impeachment of the chairman

ARTICLE 2 

(Neutrality & Non-Discrimination). The chairman, Mr. Fouad Oki has violated this section by discriminating against certain clubs affiliated to the FA. He prefers some clubs to others which is against this article. His action is punishable by suspension and expulsion.

ARTICLE 3 (Promoting Friendly Relations).

The Chairman Mr Fouad Oki does not promote friendly relations just as in Article 2, he does not promote friendly relations among members, clubs, officials, etc. For example, meeting the Director General Lagos State Sports Commission with only 5 board members without the knowledge of other board members.

ARTICLE 11 SUBSECTION E

To adopt a statutory clause specifying that any dispute requiring arbitration involving itself or one of its members and relating to the Statutes, regulations, directives and decisions of FIFA, CAF, WAFU, NFF OR LAFA shall be determined by the JUDICIAL BODIES within this Statute without recourse whatsoever to ordinary courts. The Chairman Mr. Fouad Oki has violated this Article by taking the Congress Members to Lagos High Court on the 8Th of March 2024 with suit No. LD/10997GCMW/2024.

 

ARTICLE 14 SUB SECTION 1-6  

(This highlights the suspension or Dismissal of a member, person or body). The Chairman Mr. Fouad Oki violated this article when he single-handedly suspended The BDFA Chairman. 

ARTICLE 20 STATE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION SUB-SECTION H

It shall comply with and enforce compliance with the NFF Statutes, regulations, and decisions and cooperate with the NFF in all matters. The chairman Mr. Fouad Oki has violated this section by going against NPFL/LMC over the installation of a camera at Mobolaji Johnson Arena for the 2023/2024 Coverage of matches. In addition, refusing the LSFA slot of attending the NFF Congress without recourse to the Board or Congress Members.

Sub Section K- states that it shall maintain good relations and cooperation with the NFF, other members and clubs affiliated with the NFF. The Chairman Mr. Fouad Oki also violated this section by discriminating among affiliates of LSFA vis a vis NFF (Sporting Lagos etc).

ARTICLE 24 - BODIES OF LSFA

SUBSECTION 1 states that the Congress/General Assembly is the supreme and legislative body of Football in the State.

ARTICLE 25 SUB SECTION 4 states that the Congress may appoint observers who take part in the Congress without the right to vote.

ARTICLE 28 SUBSECTION 1-3 states that a Quorum of the State General Assembly states that decisions passed by the General Assembly shall only be valid if the absolute majority (50% + 1) of the members who are entitled to vote are present.

ARTICLE 29 - Decisions of General Assembly States that a simple majority of the members entitled to vote is sufficient for a vote to be valid. A decision that requires a vote shall be reached by a show of hands or using balloting.

ARTICLE 33- STATE EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL ASSEMBLY SUBSECTION 1-5 has to do with the powers of Congress to convene if the State Executive Committee does not.

ARTICLE 34 SUBSECTION 1-6 AMENDMENTS OF THE STATUTES, The Chairman Mr. Fouad Oki did not adhere to this article. He singlehandedly wrote a Statute and forwarded it to NFF without recourse to Congress.

Lagos Supremacy Cup gets November 14 kickoff date as 12 teams set to battle for star prize

 

All is now set for the 18th edition of the Lagos Supremacy Cup, a tournament which has been a proven avenue to unearth talents and to give youths hope through football. 

Talents like Olaitan Ishola (Troyes), Tijani Muhamed (Slavia Prague), Samson Akinyoola (Zamalek), Ade Oguns (Caracas), Yira Sor (Genk), Moses Usor (LASK), Azeez Oseni (Spartak Trnava), Solomon Agbalaka (Sochi), Quadri Liameed (Lleida Esportiu), Uchenna Aririerisim (Banik Ostrava), Joseph Ede (Mas Tarbosko) and a host of others have been discovered from this great tournament. 

It is tagged "No Offside! 

Operation Mark Your Man!"

12 teams have been selected to take part in the competition which begins on November 14th-17th at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan. Registration is free.  

Speaking to the media at the weekend, Vice Chairman of the Lagos State FA and Proprietor of 36 Lion FC, Gafar Liameed shed light about the tournament. 

"We have seen over 50 clubs in Lagos, we painstakingly chose those 12 teams based on talent for talent, age for age and growth per growth of each selected teams."

"Scouts from Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France and Germany would be on ground to move players abroad as usual," he confirmed.

Organisers of the competition say their goal is to find more talents from the country and give them hope through foreign deals and better welfare packages. 

These players will join a pool of other talents who were discovered in previous editions of the competition.