Sunshine Stars, Yobo FC through to Ottasolo Preseason Tourney semifinals

 

Sunshine Stars of Akure continued to show the form that helped them scale through the relegation hurdles towards the latter stage of the 2020/21 Nigeria Professional Football League season with their performance at the ongoing Ottasolo Pre-season tournament in Lagos.

The Owena Whales remain the only team without blemish as they have won their two matches, scoring two goals in the process without conceding any to scale through to the semifinal stage of the competition.

In their first match of the pre-season, Sunshine defeated Smart City 1-0 before dishing out same scoreline against Remo Stars on Thursday.

They will however wrap up their Group B games with a top of the bill encounter against another NPFL side, MFM of Lagos by 3pm on Friday.

Lagos-based Yobo FC also secured their place in the final four after securing four points in three matches while host team, Ottasolo Int. FC was dumped out of the competition as they could only secured three points from three matches albeit not losing any game against three opponents.

Meanwhile, the remaining group stage matches at the pre-season would be taking place today with 36 Lions playing against Lobi Stars by 9am.

With just one point, 36 Lions still have an outside chance of qualifying for the final four, but they will have to get a good win against Lobi Stars who currently top Group A with four points from two games.

The second match of the day will be between Sunshine Stars and MFM by 3pm with both matches taking place at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Ottasolo's Oluwaseyi eager for players' rejig after early exit

 

Ottasolo FC coach, Olufemi Olawaseyi has stated that the Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament has helped his team to see the level of their preparedness for the start of the Nigeria National League season which has been tentatively fixed for December 3rd.

Before the start of the ongoing tournament in Lagos, Ottasolo FC had taken part in two pre-season tournaments including the NLO Super 8 which was used to determine the placement of the teams ahead of last season.

But Oluwaseyi noted that the team needs to be beefed up before the commencement of the NNL season judging by how they have performed in the three tournaments.

The coach lamented his players' wastefulness in front of goal despite the ample time he devoted to coaching them on how to improve their predatory instinct in the goal area, before the start of the tournament.

"We are making up for our pre-season games. We used the tournament to see where our lapses are," Oluwaseyi told Ottasolo Pre-season Media.

"We had a lot of chances but my strikers need to do more to take the chances they are creating. We are not a bad team but it is just unfortunate that we didn't qualify. 

"Our failure to convert scoring chances is giving me a headache because we had a lot of practices before the game. We now know what to do to make a success of our upcoming games. 

"We need more good players to beef up the team before the start of the season so that we can readjust and get balanced."

Ottasolo FC drew all three games they played in the tournament and they are out of the race to finish in the top two with Lobi Stars and Yobo FC already with four points.

'Ottasolo Pre-season has given us more exposure,' Says Yobo's Ohioze

 

Head coach Yobo FC, Harry Ohioze has thumbed up the organisers of the Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament who have provided games with which to give his boys the needed exposure ahead of the Nigeria Nationwide League season.

Yobo FC put themselves in the best position to qualify for the semi-final of the tournament after a battling 1-1 draw against Ottasolo FC and Ohioze told Ottasolo Pre-season Media that his boys played to instructions and didn't lose concentration throughout the game.

"Football is all about total concentration. In the first 15 minutes, we dominated and had chances to kill off the game but in the last 15 minutes, we were out of the game and they were about scoring us," Ohioze told Ottasolo Pre-season Media.

"It was the same thing in the second half. They dominated the proceedings but I thank God for the concentration of our boys. They were able to sustain the pressure. 

"This is a better development for us because most of our boys need exposure and they need to mature in their game. Playing in the Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament brought them out and gave them the needed exposure."

Yobo FC are currently second in the group with four points and 0 goals difference having scored three goals and conceded the same number of goals and when asked the team they would like to meet in the semi-final if they manage to qualify, the coach affirmed that his boys would be open to meeting any team that emerges from Group B.

"We are ready for any team. We are not afraid of any team. I know the boys will continue to progress from game to game. 

"We will take advantage of any opportunity that comes. We will hold it and it will give us victory."

Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament is sponsored by Otunba Gabriel Davies who is the owner of Ottasolo FC.

Ottasolo Pre-season: Ottasolo FC stumble out despite draw with Yobo FC

 

Host, Ottasolo FC are the first team to be officially eliminated from the ongoing Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament after they could only secure a 1-1 draw against Yobo FC on Thursday at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Ottasolo FC that had earlier drawn with both 36 Lion and Lobi Stars needed an outright victory against Yobo FC to seal a semi-final place even before the start of the final Group A game between 36 Lion and Lobi Stars slated for Friday.

But it was Yobo FC who were with three points before the commencement of hostilities that began the game impressively. With only 11 minutes gone, Chinedu Okafor dribbled three Ottasolo FC players and fired a shot that beat the hosts' goalkeeper but the effort crashed the upright and returned back to play. 

Yobo FC made their early domination count with the opening goal of the game in the 24th minute when Shedrack Kaye nodded home an inviting cross from Chukwuma Ugbo.

Ottasolo FC woke up from their slumber almost immediately when they were behind but they were unable to get the equaliser until the end of the first half.

Ottasolo coach introduced Ugo Samson in the 50th minute to beef up the attack and barely 18 minutes later the super sub found the equalising goal from a good cross from Tosin Adelosi in the 68th minute. 

The game ended 1-1 despite Ottasolo FC's late desperate efforts to score the winning goal.

Despite only playing two games, Lobi Stars are on top of the Group A log with 4 points and plus one goal difference while Yobo FC are second with four points also but they have completed their three games. 

Ottasolo FC are currently third with 3 points from three games but they are out of the tournament.

While 36 Lion, Yobo FC, and Lobi Stars are all the race for the two tickets to the semi-final. 36 Lion versus Lobi Stars tie billed for Friday will unravel the mystery behind those that will qualify from Group A.

Ottasolo Preseason Day 3 Wrap: Smart City put Remo Stars on the brink; Lobi close in on semi-final ticket

 

Remo Stars will now depend heavily on the results of other matches if they are to qualify for the semi-final round of the on-going Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament after they lost their second consecutive game to Smart City on Wednesday at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Lagos.

The Sky Blue Stars had lost to MFM on Tuesday and were hoping to stage a comeback in the tournament but Lagos based Smart City had other ideas as they plan how to negotiate their qualification to the next round, too.

Smart City narrowly lost to Sunshine Stars in their first game on Monday but they stormed back to life with a 1-0 win over NPFL new entrants, Remo Stars. Habeeb Olaitan converted the only goal of the game from the penalty spot after he slotted the ball beyond the reach of Remo Stars goalkeeper, Timi Adeyoriju in the 15th minute.

After many failed attempts by both teams, Remo Stars were reduced to 10 when substitute goalie, Salami Kelvin was penalised for a foul on Amos Okoro in the 86th minute in the 18 yard box. Smart City's Toheeb Sunkanmi missed the resultant spot kick a minute later. 

There was no chance for Gbenga Ogunbote's men to get a face saving draw and have been booted out of the tourney with no points from two games.

Earlier, the host team of the on-going Ottasolo Pre-season tournament, Ottasolo International FC forced their more illustrious opponent, Lobi Stars, to a 1-1 draw at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, in the first game of the MatchDay 3.

Ottasolo drew their first game with 36 Lions while Lobi secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Yobo FC on Tuesday. Both teams were looking for a win that will move them closer to the semifinal stage of the maiden edition of the tournament.

Both teams came out smoking as they continue to look for the opening goal but failed to come until the 23rd minute when Ottasolo FC's Jelili Moshood put the ball beyond the reach of his goalkeeper, Korede Shodipo in his attempt to clear out  Lobi's goal-bound effort. 

The newly promoted Nigeria National League side didn’t allow the goal to weigh them down as they continued to pile on the pressure which paid off just three minutes later as Ogunjimi Samuel headed Ottasolo back into the game after he connected a lovely cross from Issah Mohammed.

While in another game also decided on Wednesday, Yobo FC put themselves in a better position to qualify for the semi-final of the pre-season tourney after a 2-1 win over 36 Lion.

Godwin Arewa put Yobo FC in the ascendancy with the opening goal of the game in the 23rd minute. It was their first goal in the tournament. Gift Nwokeke increased the goals tally in the 60th minute for Yobo FC but Raji Olamuyiwa reduced the goals deficit in the 70th minute to make for a frenetic final 20 minutes at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Lagos.

On Thursday, Yobo FC and Ottasolo FC will slug it out in their final Group A game with both teams needing positive result to progress. The host, Ottasolo FC with two drawn games are under compulsion to beat Yobo FC to progress to the semi-final while Yobo FC with three points must also secure the maximum points to be certain of qualification irrespective of the result of Lobi Stars vs 36 Lion on Friday.

Smart City will also on Thursday face MFM in their third and final Group B tie. Both teams are on three points but Smart City have played a game more. Both are Lagos based clubs but Smart City will be eager to pick the maximum points that should be sufficient for a place in the semi-finals while the Olukoya Boys can't afford to lose knowing that their final group game comes up on Friday against tough Sunshine Stars.

Remo Stars with two losses are close to being bundled out of the tournament but they will trade tackles with Sunshine Stars also tomorrow with the sole aim of fighting until the end of the group stage if they could get an outside chance to qualify.

The Ottasolo pre-season tournament is in its debut edition with the owner of Ottasolo FC, Gabriel Davies as sponsor.

Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament:

Results

Ottasolo FC 0-0 36 Lion

Lobi Stars 1-0 Yobo FC

Sunshine Stars 1-0 Smart City

MFM 1-0 Remo Stars

Ottasolo FC 1-1 Lobi Stars

36 Lion 1-2 Yobo FC

Smart City 1-0 Remo Stars

Day Four (November 4) Fixtures

Yobo FC vs Ottasolo FC 9.00 am

Smart City vs MFM  2.00 pm

Remo Stars vs Sunshine Stars 4.00 pm

MFM FC, Lobi Stars record morale boosting victories on Day Two of Ottasolo Preseason Tourney

 

Surulere continued to be on the spotlight as the second day of the 2021 Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament took place on Tuesday at Legacy Pitch.

It was Lobi Stars of Makurdi who faced Yobo FC in an entertaining opening match of the day at 9am.

Both sides were hoping to bag a win in the keenly contested battle.

However, Yobo FC could not contain their fast-paced opponents as they succumbed to a 1-0 loss.

Lobi Stars rested most of their key players, yet they remained a threat.

Experienced striker Daniel Jackson climbed off the bench to nod home the winner with 12 minutes left on the clock.

The win for Pride of Benue over the NLO side in the tournament takes them to top of the Group A standings with three points from one game, while Ottasolo FC and 36 Lion share one point apiece.

In the second match, coach Gbenga Ogunbote led his Remo Stars' side in search of a win over MFM FC, yet they failed to hit the ground running.

In the 23rd minute, Victor Osuagwu had the chance to put Sky Blue Stars in front but he failed to score as Onyeabuchi Ifeanyi intercepted his effort.

Remo Stars custodian James Faith denied Dennis Obasi the chance to wreck the ship with a fine save.

Adebayo Oyedele eventually got onto the score sheet in the 47th minute as the game ended 1-0 in favour of the Olukoya Boys.

The loss leaves Ogunbote and his troops with no point in Group B. Sunshine Stars and MFM FC have three points each. Smart City are also pointless. 

Meanwhile, the Remo Stars will now turn their focus to Smart City for their next clash on Wednesday whilst 36 Lion chase a win against Yobo FC on the same day. 

Ottasolo FC will be out to dim Lobi Stars in a pulsating encounter at Legacy Pitch.

Results So Far 

MatchDay 1 Monday Nov. 1

Ottasolo 0-0 36 Lion

Sunshine Stars 1-0 Smart City

MatchDay 2 Tuesday Nov. 2

Lobi Stars 1-0 Yobo FC

MFM FC 1-0 Remo Stars

MatchDay 3: Wednesday Nov. 3

9am - Ottasolo vs Lobi Stars

2pm - 36 Lion vs Yobo FC

4pm - Remo Stars vs Smart City

Ottasolo Preseason Tourney: 10-man Ottasolo hold 36 Lion

 

The eagerly-awaited Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament, began with a 0-0 draw in a game between Ottasolo International Football Club and 36 Lion on Monday morning.

The opener at Legacy Pitch saw Ottasolo picking up a red card.

36 Lion had nothing to show for it in front of goal as they were held by a resolute Ottasolo side. 

The young boys played fluid football and high pressure off the ball. And inside five minutes they could've been ahead. Azeez Oseni whipped the ball across the box but Moses Usor couldn't quite get the contact to tap home from close range at the near post.

Peter John was presented with a golden opportunity to open the scoring but his close range effort could not hit the target. 

Ottasolo goalie Korede Shodipo was at alert to deny Moses who whipped home a wicked free kick.

It was a physical battle between the two sides, with 36 Lion better in terms of possession.

Ifeanyi Ogba had a chance in the 24th minute as he fired one from the edge of the box against woodwork.

Peter and Ogba combined well to set Matiti Ibrahim up in the box but the midfielder's close range effort sailed wide.

Oseni was one of the Lion's brighter sparks. He produced another cross, this time deep, which fell to Moses at the back post in the 32nd minute, but he could only volley his effort wide. 

Ottasolo came closest to drawing the curtain raiser, eight minutes into the second stanza through Ogba who failed to make the right connection.

Ottasolo's Hammed Egbedeyi received the second booking and was sent off on the hour mark.

Ifeanyi Hemekwele was guilty of a shocking miss and would have converted with ease for Lion in the 62nd minute.

Odom Chikah thought he had given 36 Lion the lead after beating goalkeeper Korede Shodipo but it was correctly ruled out for offside.

The match ended goalless as least both sides played some attractive technically good football and their game was far more easy on the eye.

The tournament continues in the afternoon with Sunshine Stars facing Smart City. Kickoff is 3pm.

Ottasolo Preseason: MFM, Remo, Sunshine in 'Group of Death' as 36 Lion open tourney with Ottasolo FC

 

It will be a battle between the host team of the maiden edition of the Ottasolo Pre-season tournament,  Ottasolo Int. FC and Lagos-based Football Club, 36 Lion, as the championship kickoff on Monday at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium,  Surulere, Lagos.

In a draw conducted at the Havannah Hotel, Egbeda on Sunday, Ottasolo Int. FC seeded in Group A was joined by 36 Lion, Lobi Stars and Yobo FC.

The opening game is scheduled to take place by 9am as the teams prepare to be the maiden winner of the championship. 

Group B is arguably the Group of Death with Lagos-based Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side, MFM FC seeded in the group alongside newly promoted side, Remo Stars, Sunshine Stars and Smart City.

Coming from winning the first recognised Pre-season tournament in the country, the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, Remo Stars already showed that they are ready for the season and they will be the team to beat in the group.

Two games will be played on Monday with Sunshine Stars taking on Smart City by 3pm at the same venue.

Speaking during the draws ceremony witnessed by top administrators, the Coordinator of the Pre-season, Bashir Badawiy, appreciated all the clubs that made it to Lagos while also assuring them of a level playing ground and a good time in Lagos.

Present at the draws were the CEO of the host team and the sponsor of the competition,  Otunba Gabriel Davies, Football Director of ABS, Ilorin, Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka, CEO of 36 Lion, Alhaji Liameed Gafar, Coach Henry Makinwa, among others.

The Pre-season is taking place at the Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere, from November 1 to 7.

Alloy Chukwuemeka: Nigerian football needs more private investors like Ottasolo

Well meaning Nigeria and corporate organizations have been charged to invest in Football as a way of creating employment for the teeming youths as well as ensuring positive engagement of young talented players who seek career as future professional Footballers. 

Executive Secretary of the NPFL Club Owners Association of Nigeria  Chief Alloy chukwuemeka made the call on Sunday in Lagos while speaking with newsmen shortly after the draws to usher in the maiden edition of Ottasolo Preseason soccer tournament in Lagos.

Chief Chukwuemeka who was a special guest at the draws ceremony said the likes of Otunba Gabriel Davies, proprietor of Ottasolo FC needed to be encouraged while his passion and investments in football should be emulated by all and sundry.  

He described the Maiden Ottasolo Preseason tournament as another milestone aimed at encouraging Football activities amongst clubs, hence the club owners and NPFL clubs were in the tournament to support and participate in the event. 

The club owners scribe who doubles as a Member of NFF Strategic Studies Committee commended the organizers of the tournament for a transparent draws, urged the participating clubs to play to the rules and  imbibe discipline and spirit of sportsmanship .

The  maiden Ottasolo Preseason soccer  tournament kicks off on Monday at the Legacy pitch of the National stadium Surulere Lagos.

Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament: Kola Daniel Promises Memorable Tournament

 

The 2021 Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament is seven days away and organizers stated that everything is in place to make the tournament a memorable experience for clubs. 

The Tournament is scheduled to hold from the 1st to 7th of November in Lagos and a total of 10 ten teams will take part.

Ottasolo International Football Club will be joined by Kwara United, Abia Warriors, Lobi Stars, Gombe United, and Niger Tornadoes. 

Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) new boys, Shooting Stars, MFM, and Sunshine Stars, and Smart City are also expected to be in action. 

Meanwhile, partner of Ottasolo Pre-season, Kola Daniel confirmed that clubs are expected to arrive the venue of the tournament, between 29 and 30th of October.

Matches will be played at Mobolaji Johnson Stadium Arena, Lagos. 

Teams will will use the tournament to intensity their preparations for the 2021/22 season.

"We want Lagosians to be ready for a hitch free competition" - Ottasolo Pre-season tournament Coordinator Badawiy

 

With seven days to the start of the maiden edition of the Ottasolo Pre-season tournament, organisers have revealed that they are 90 percent ready for all the 10 teams coming for the championship.

According to the tournament coordinator,  Badawiy Bashir, all is almost set to stage one of the best pre-season ever in the country.

“We are aware that there are seven days away before the start of the pre-season,” he said.

“As you can see, we have the 10 clubs coming for the tournament already spelt out and we are always in constant communication with them because we don’t want to have any hitch at all.

“The likes of Kwara United, Abia Warriors, Lobi Stars, Niger Tornadoes, Shooting Stars, Gombe United, MFM, all Nigeria Professional Football League sides, would be joined by Ottasolo International FC and Smart City of Lagos.

“The venue of the pre-season is the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan and we want Lagosians to be ready for a hitch free competition.”

On his part, the partner, Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament, Kola Daniel, praised the sponsor of the championship, Gabriel Davies who is also the owner of fast-rising Ottasolo FC and he described him as an advocate of grassroots football who played the game to the highest level before he quit to venture into the football business.

The media aide to the minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, said while the coordinator has been making sure everything goes according to plans, the sponsor on his part has been making everything necessary support available.

He added: “We are going to have a successful pre-season; I can assure you. The coordinator is very versed in organizing things like this and I am sure we have the best hand handling it.

“The teams are ready and they will be moving to Lagos few days to the commencement of the pre-season with some of them already in nearby state, Ogun, in preparation for the new season.”

The Ottasolo Pre-season tournament is scheduled for the Mobolaji Johnson Arena from November 1 to 7, 2021.

Kola Daniel explains essence of Ottasolo Pre-season Tourney; confirms participating teams

Kola Daniel who is a strong partner in organizing the Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament has informed that all modalities have been put in place for a hitch-free tournament holding at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos as from November 1st.

He confirmed that the final two weeks to the start of the maiden edition of the tournament is being used to finalize all arrangements and ensure that even though the Ottasolo Pre-season Tourney is only in its debut, it would still rank among the best organized pre-season tournaments.

Daniel, who is a media aide to the Minister of Youth and Sports confirmed the participation of Niger Tornadoes, Gombe United, Lobi Stars, Sunshine Stars, 3SC, Kwara United, and Remo Stars.

"It has been two weeks of intensive preparation aimed at trying to package the first of its kind pre-season tournament in Nigeria named Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament that is going to take place in Lagos," Daniel disclosed in a radio programme monitored in Abuja.

"The start of the tourney is gathering momentum and clubs have been showing their interest to take part. We have got top NPFL clubs that have indicated interest to participate. 

"Lobi Stars, Gombe United, Niger Tornadoes, Sunshine Stars, 3SC, and as well Remo Stars are the NPFL clubs that will attend the pre-season tournament. Ottasolo FC will also take part."

Daniel hailed the sponsor of the pre-season tournament, Gabriel Davies who is also the owner of fast-rising Ottasolo FC and he described him as an advocate of grassroots football who played the game to the highest level before he quit to venture into the football business.

He also thumbed up the metamorphosis of Ottasolo FC who qualified for the Nigeria National League barely a season in the Nigeria Nationwide League and he confirmed the participation of Ottasolo FC in the pre-season tournament.

"Ottasolo FC is owned by Gabriel Davies who is an advocate of grassroots football. He played for Stationery Stores and left the shores of Nigeria to play in the Benin Republic," Daniel continued.

"He played in the same club as Benin Republic internationals Mouri Ogounbiyi, Rasak Omotoyossi, Jonas Oketola, and others who were looking up to him when he was still active. 

"He is a man with a vision and good passion to ensure that players are off the streets and are given a new source of livelihood and also engage them. It was the reason why he decided to venture into the football business. 

"Ottasolo FC played in the Nationwide League last season immediately the club gained promotion to play in the Nigeria National League this season. 

The Minister of Sports Media aide believes that the pre-season tournament will help equip the participating NPFL teams to help gauge the level of their preparedness and also ensure they tie all loose ends before the season commences later in the year.

"The essence of this pre-season tourney is to prepare clubs taking part to gauge the level of their preparedness for the fast-approaching start of the season. It will enable them to see loopholes they intend to correct before the start of the season too. 

"Ottasolo Pre-season Tournament is ready and by the first of November we will kick off the maiden edition in Lagos. Mobolaji Johnson Stadium Arena, Lagos will host the matches of the tourney. 

"All modalities have been put in place. The Coordinator of the tournament, Badawiy Bashir has been working helter-skelter to ensure all hands are on deck for a hitch-free tournament."

Lobi Stars swell star studded NPFL line up for Ottasolo Pre Season Competition

 

Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side, Lobi Stars, is the latest club to show interest in the fast approaching Ottasolo pre-season tournament scheduled to take place in Lagos from November 1 to 7.

Making this declaration was the coordinator of the tournament, Mallam Badawiy Bashir, who revealed that the organisers are making concrete arrangements towards a successful championship.

According to the General Manager of Kwara United, the likes of Remo Stars, Abia Warriors, Niger Tornadoes, Gombe United and Sunshine Stars will all be in Lagos for the prestigious pre-season event.

"Remo Stars, Abia Warriors, Niger Tornadoes, Kwara United, Gombe United and Sunshine Stars are the teams who already confirmed their readiness to be part of the Ottasolo pre season  tournament," he mused.

"The target is to have 10 teams and we are already in talks with other top sides who are just trying to look at their schedule before confirming their availability.

"The NPFL outfits will join the host team, Ottasolo International for the seven-day football competition in Lagos.

"Everything have been put in place for an explosive Tournament," he added.

Optima Energy NLO Super 8: Danburam bounce back to pummel Udala FC

 

... As losing streak continues for Ottasolo FC

Danburam Fc bounced back to reckoning to defeat Udala Fc 4-2 on match day two of the on - going Optima Energy NLO Super 8 at Remo stars stadium, Ikenne, Ogun state.

Danburam Fc lost narrowly to Doma Utd on match day game played yesterday, but a brace from Jamilu Yusuf in the 20th minute and 63rd minute put the team on a cruise control of victory.

The fluid flowing football and their attacking forays created diverse problems for Udala Fc as Umar Musa registered the second goal for his side in the 42nd minute.

Umar Abdullahi, who scored the lone goal for his side in their 2-1 loss to Doma Utd was again on the scoresheet, when he hit the back of the net to make it 4-0 demolition of Udala Fc.

Five minutes later, Okeke Chinansa reduced the tally when he scored from a tight angle to make it 4-1. 

The remaining minutes of the game saw Udala Fc piled pressure as they created chances, but the team only had another goal for consolation in the 90th minute courtesy of Godwin Okoyeatu to end the game 4-2.

Losing streak continues for Ottasolo

Ottasolo fc continues their poor form after they lost 3-0 to JM Liberty Fc of Makurdi.

JM Liberty Fc had the game under control in the first half but their dominance could not be reflected on the score board as the half ended goalless.

With the few fans at the stadium cheering Ottasolo fc, the players of JM Liberty were unfazed as their energetic and attacking play was rewarded with a goal in the 61st minute after a sublime finish from Shittu Olagunju.

Olagunju was well positioned to punish Ottasolo again with his brace in the 76th minute to make 2- 0 advantage for the Makurdi based side.

Efforts by Ottasolo to reduce the tally proved abortive as Akuki Musa in goal for JM Libery was equal to the task to deny any come back attempt from Ottasolo.

The game was put beyond reach of Ottasolo as Isiaka Moses nailed them with his goal in 90th minute to make it 3-0 demolition.

Photo 1. Match statistics Jm Libery FC vs Ottasola

Photo 2. Match Statistics Danburam vs Udala Fc

Photo 3. Action in the game between JM Liberty and Ottasolo

Photo 4 . Danburam players celebrates a goal against Udala Fc

Photo 5 : Prince Udofia, Manager of JM Liberty FC

Akinwunmi sees NLO TV as catalyst to grassroot football development in Nigeria

 

Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi, Vice President, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has hinted that the NLO TV App will give grassroot football in Nigeria a new identity.

Management of the nation's third-tier domestic league launched its television and a video viewing application, as they began airing the 2021/22 matches starting with the Optima Energy NLO Super 8 match-day games.

"The NLO is the birthplace for grassroot football, that's where fireworks should be tapping from, the earlier acknowledge that the better for all of us, said Akinwunmi.

"The app will change the face of NLO matches completely because we can now see these players in their elements. The whole world can see the kind of football Nigeria has in stock.

"We underestimate ourselves, now the coaches have no place to hide. They can not say they have not seen the players rather wherever they are our national team coaches can easily access these players.

"Am very proud of what Mohammed Alkali, the Chairman NLO, Sola Ogunowo and his team have done, which is something we must emulate.

"Technology is the way forward and this will change the face of football, believe me, just give it a few years. It is fine to have it at the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) level but when you have it at the grassroot, it changes the face of the game."

Speaking further as regards the quality of work done at the Remo Stars Stadium venue for Optima Energy NLO Super 8 play-off, the Sports Lawyer gave the edifice a pass mark.

"We have been looking forward to this for quite a while and am so glad I was able to make it. First of all, you see the ambience of the place, it's still a work in progress but it's a fantastic stadium.

"The quality of football we saw on Monday morning at the Remo Stars Stadium shows that we will continue to have talents in Nigeria."

Ikenne comes alive as Optima Energy NLO Super 8 begins

The City of Ikenne will take centre stage as the Optima Energy NLO Super 8 will kick off on Monday as JNR Danburan will lock horns against Doma in the first game billed for 10 am at the Remo Stars Stadium.

Fixtures released by the Nationwide League One (NLO) from the draws held in Ikenne informed that Group A is made up of 

JNR Danburan, Destiny Boys, Doma FC, and Udala FC while Ijebu United, Ottasolo, Campus and JM Liberty are in Group B.

Three other Matchday 1 fixtures are as follows, Ottasolo FC will host Campus FC at none while Udala FC trade tackles with Destiny Boys at 2 pm. At 4 pm, Ijebu United will be having its hands full when they battle JM Liberty. 

Chief Operating Officer(COO) Sola Ogunowo speaking after the draws gave reasons why the NLO is hosting Optima Energy NLO Super 8.

"We are having this event to have a single champion in the NLO Division 1, we have over 350 clubs in the league and we can not just have promotions without a champion.

"The NLO deserves to have one and that's the reason the chairman of the nation's third-tier league went out of his way to ensure that the 2020/21 championship play-off takes place.

"We have set a standard, so will not stop until we archive our target and that is the reason why we are doing everything to ensure a hitch-free play-off."

Meanwhile, all players are to wear black hand bands on Matchday 1 in memory of late chairmen of Destiny Boys and Udala FC.

Late Otunba Adebowale Ogunade, popularly called ‘Big Debo’ died in February while High Chief Philip Udala was murdered by unknown gunmen in July.

It was gathered that Udala was killed when his convoy was ambushed at Eke-Agu Market junction in Abatete, Idemili North Local Government Area.

The unknown gunmen had invaded a police facility in the area and were fleeing the scene when they ran into Udala’s convoy.

Group A 

JNR Danburan

Destiny 

Doma FC 

Udala FC 

Group B

Ijebu United 

Campus 

JM Liberty 

Ottasolo FC

#DapoAbidounCup21: Gateway United share points with 3SC as Sunshine wins the battle of Stars against Remo

Gateway United put up a spirited performance to hold defending champions, Shooting Stars to a 1-1 draw in the first game of Matchday Two.

Ayo Adejubu opened the scoring in the second minute of the game with a fine strike from a tight angle. Gateway United came back into the game, after Seyi Okeowo’s pass met Emmanuel Orji inside the area, and the tall striker calmly slotted the ball home.

Kwara United bounced back from their defeat in the first game to Shooting Stars, as they claimed a 1-0 win over Ijebu United. 

A first half goal from Kabir Balogun in the 34th minute was enough to give Kwara United their first win of the tournament. 

Sunshine Stars started their campaign on a winning note, after claiming a hard fought 1-0 win against Remo Stars. 

First half ended without a goal after both teams missed several chances to score. Hadi Mohammed broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute after putting the ball past James Faith in goal. 

Two second half goals from Ndubusi Pascal and Dennis Obasi ensured MFM FC get their first win of the tournament. 

First half ended in stalemate, until Ndubusi Pascal benefited from a through pass to beat Shodipo Korede in goal. Dayo Alabi’s shot inside the area was saved by Korede before a rebound from Dennis Obasi made it 2-0 to the Olukoya boys. 

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW: 

Sunshine Stars coach, Deji Ayeni spoke about the importance of the tournament. 

"This is a good opportunity to blend our new and old players before the new season. The victory is good for the team.

“We knew Remo Stars has got a good squad and they also have a coach with a rich history, it was a good test for our team and the victory will motivate our work”. Deji Ayeni said. 

The tournament sponsored by Bet9ja and Value Jet is an initiative of Otunba Tade Azeez, President Nigeria Referees Association.

Dapo Abiodun Cup Draw: Defending Champions 3SC rekindles rivalry with Kwara United as Ogunbote faces former club

 

Defending Champions of the Dapo Abiodun Preseason tournament, Shooting Stars sports club have been placed alongside NPFL side, Kwara United and two NNL sides, Gateway United and Ijebu United in Group A. 

Shooting Stars won the two previous editions of the tournament, and claimed the last title with a 1-0 win over Lobi Stars. The Oluyole Warriors will hope to defend their title, when they face Nigeria Professional Football League side, Kwara United, and two Nigeria National League side, Gateway United and Ijebu United in Group A. 

New coach of Remo Stars, Gbenga Ogunbote will face his immediate former side, Sunshine Stars in Group B, with two NPFL sides, MFM FC, Niger Tornadoes, and Ottasolo completing Group B. 

The opening match of the tournament, Shooting Stars against Kwara United will kickoff by 7:30am on Tuesday, 12th of October. 

Dapo Abiodun Preseason Tournament: Draw 

Group  A 

Shooting Stars

Kwara United

Gateway United

Ijebu United

Group B 

Sunshine Stars

Remo Stars

MFM FC

Niger Tornadoes 

Ottasolo FC. 

MATCHDAY ONE FIXTURES: 

Shooting Stars vs Kwara United 

Kickoff: 7-30am 

Venue: Main Bowl 

Gateway United vs Ijebu United

Kickoff: 9-30am  

Venue: Practice Pitch 1

Remo Stars vs Ottasolo FC  

Kickoff: 9-30am

Venue: Main Bowl 

MFM  FC vs Niger Tornadoes  

Kickoff: 3-30pm  

Venue: Main Bowl.

NLO assures clubs of hitch-free Optima Energy Super 8 Tourney

 

The management of Nationwide League One (NLO) has informed that it has put all things in top gear to host a hitch-free and exciting Optima Energy Super 8 Tournament which is billed for 18th - 22nd October 2021 at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ogun State.

Eight participating champions from the zonal play-offs who got promoted to the Nigeria National League (NNL), Udala FC of Anambra State, Ijebu United of Ogun State, Destiny Boys of Lagos State, Campus FC of Owerri, Imo state, JM Liberty of Makurdi, Benue State, Ottasolo FC of Ogun State, Doma FC of Gombe and Junior Damburam FC of Katsina State are to battle for who becomes the overall champion of the nation's third-tier league.

 

NLO Chief Operation Officer (COO) Shola Ogunnowo disclosed on Wednesday, "We are excited as we countdown to the kickoff of the NLO Super 8 in Ikenne.

"All arrangements have been concluded and all things have been put to motion to hosting a successful play-off.

"Of course, to set the ball rolling, the draw format has also been agreed on and a date for the official draws and release of fixtures will be communicated to all the participating clubs and indeed the public.

"The referees that will officiate the Super 8 matches have been selected based on merits, likewise the Match Commissioners, so the clubs have nothing to worry about as they will be treated fairly and just and have the same level playing field.

"I want to urge fans to come to the Remo Stars Stadium to support their teams but will adhere strictly to all COVID-19 protocols by wearing a mask, use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers and also observe social distancing."

Ottasolo Pre-season Tourney: Clubs signify interests to play at prestigious competition

It has been revealed that more Nigeria Professional Football League sides have signified their interest in taking part in the maiden edition of the Ottasolo Pre-Season tournament.

Speaking with Ottasolo Media, the sole financier of the pre-season competition, Gabriel Davies, said apart from clubs like Shooting Stars, MFM, Kwara United and Sunshine Stars, who already declared their intention to be part of the eight-day event, the organisers are already in advanced talk with one of the clubs currently playing on the continent and also some other Nigeria Professional Football League clubs.

“The intention is to have 10 clubs taking part in the pre-season and one of the clubs representing the country on the continent has made it known to us that they want to be part of the tournament,” he said.

“With the season yet to start, it will grant them the avenue to put their team in competitive games which will help them.

“We are also having discussion with some other clubs among which are two clubs who just gained promotion, so hopefully, everything should be sorted soon.”

The former Stationary Stores FC of Lagos added that everything has been put in place for a successful pre-season that will be one of its kind.

It would be recalled that the Ottasolo Pre-season has been scheduled to take place between October 23 and 30 at the Agege ‘Soccer Temple’ Stadium.