10-man Shooting Stars dethrone Beyond Limits as Optima Energy Gold Cup champions

 

A 10-man Shooting Stars of Ibadan defied the odds as they broke their Optima Energy Gold Cup final jinx, as they emerged champions of the 12th edition beating defending kings Beyond Limits 2-0 in a tantalizing clash at the Remo Stars Stadium on Saturday. 

It was heartbreak for Beyond Limits who, despite an impressive performance, were put to the sword by an experienced and more determined Oluyole Warriors. 

Just after the half-hour mark, Shooting Stars reminded fans watching the Optima Energy Gold Cup finale exactly what they are capable of with the ball and tactical play.

On the 32nd minute, the referee was spot on as he awarded 3SC a penalty after Sodiq brought down Olaniyi Fasanmi, who was put through on goal by Utim. Aliyu Abubakar then stepped up and converted the to hand Shooting Stars the lead, as they entered the break. 

Two minutes after the restart of the second half, 3SC lost its captain Taye Muritala, who received his marching order for a needless foul on Beyond Limits striker. 

A second Shooting Stars goal would come in the 72nd minute, after Desmond Ojietefian jumped highest and connected with a superb delivery to nod into the net from range for a second goal.

 

Beyond Limits would rule lady luck and rue their misses chance as the Oluyole Warriors were crowned champions after fourth attempt at giving it a shot in the final. 

Shooting Stars were rewarded a sum of ₦2, 000,000 from Proud Sponsors Optima Energy while Beyond Limits took home a sum of ₦1, 000, 000 for emerging as runners-up. 

For the individual awards, Olisa Emmanuel of Beyond Limits took home the Golden Glove after keeping three clean sheets hearing to the final.

 

Benin Premier League Association Sportive de la Vallée de l'Ouémé (ASVO) FC were awarded the Best Behaved Team while Stephen Idowu got the Best Referee award. 

It was deserving of Kparobo Arierhi, as his three goals and one assist earned him the Highest Goalscorer award. 

The tournament Most Valuable Player went to Shooting Stars attacker Aliyu Abubakar, as his coach, Gbenga Ogunbote, was presented with the off-season tourney Best Coach gong.

"Our objective is always to compete", Beyond Limits coach speak ahead of Optima Energy Gold Cup final

 

Head Coach of Beyond Limits Academy, Ajibolade Olumide has said that retaining the Optima Energy Gold Cup against Shooting Stars in the final will be a bonus to his side, as his lads are ready to to learn, compete against the best.

Both teams clash in Saturday's finale of the 12th edition of the nation's off-season football tournament billed for the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State. 

His thoughts ahead of the tantalizing clash after Beyond Limits edged FC Ebedei in the first semis on Thursday. 

"The objective is to learn and compete, Shooting Stars should give us a good game for the boys to take the lessons. We're happy. 

"I've never gone to a tournament thinking I have to win, it's never in the back of my mind, and of course people say that's a lie because we win everything. 

"Our objective is always to compete, and if we win, it's a bonus. We have to ensure the lads play well and improve, and if we win again on Saturday, it's just another trophy, and we're happy for that."

On the tough and close game against FC Ebedei, "I don't think our semi-final game was difficult just because we won with a one goal margin, however the opposition was very physical, a lot duels and intensity pressing, organization with bodies behind the ball. 

"And off course, we expected that when we know, as no team wants us to have space behind, so we keep probing trying to find the options to play around them and eventually we get a break through. 

"By and large I think the organization from FC Ebedei was good but we were not just able to have in our one by one, may be it's preseason, so we have a lot to work on. 

"Nothing different from what we actually do, it's preseason so we would then compete and hopefully we'll be able to field a lot more players, so they can get the needed minutes as they prepare for other competitions that's ahead of us. So nothing special, just our normal approach of excellence."

Fatai Osho reveals ASVO FC plans ahead of Shooting Stars' clash at Optima Energy Gold Cup

 

Technical Adviser of Association Sportive de la Vallée de l'Ouémé (ASVO) FC, Fatai Osho has assured that his side will give its best shots against Shooting Stars of Ibadan. 

Osho revealed his pre-match routine ahead of Thursday's Optima Energy Gold Cup semi-final against the Oluyole Warriors at the Remo Stars International Stadium, Ikenne by 3pm. 

"I'm impressed with the transition in my team, coming from an opening day defeat to a draw and a win in the final group game," he told Optima Energy Gold Cup preseason tournament Media Channel. 

"But, we can't be ignorant of the fact that we still have a whole lot of work to do, to make the team better.  Having a contest with Shooting Stars in the semi-final will help us as a team, as the Oluyole Warriors will expose our weaknesses and strengths, and on our part, we'll be ambitious. 

"Once a team is in the semi-final of any tournament and has the chance to win it, then such a team must give its best shot. That ASVO FC will do, as we want to have another test with defending champions Beyond Limits in the final if both teams qualify. 

"We are looking forward to the Optima Energy Gold Cup final, as there's always a first time. In the last week of intense training and looking at the work rate of players in the matches we have played coming this far, I am highly encouraged. So playing in the final on Saturday will be an icing on the cake for us. 

"My assistants and I will prepare the team mentally for Shooting Stars and with a mindset that anything is quite possible."

On his team's progress in the preseason tournament, "It has been one with mixed emotions but a good one for the team, as finishing the final game against Kasam FA with a win and with 10-man, said a lot about the team. 

"In our first game against Beyond Limits, we started badly, the conditioning was not there, and we then had to work extra hard on the players, so that they could be able to compete, that's was has manifested in the team as they can now play better with the ball as a unit and execute my tactical instructions on the pitch. 

"The fitness level of my players is gradually coming up, as this is the only time we can overload them in training and still ask them to play. 

On his no-show in the dugout, " It is deliberate. It's a preseason tournament, and I want my assistants to do much of the job on the touchline while I watch calmly and jot on my notes the key things I see about my players during matches."

Osho, a former coach of Akwa United, has assured ASVO FC fans that they will see his 'Sugar Ball' when the Beninoise season kicks off. 

"No doubt about it, we are going to be good in that area, my free-flowing football. Practically, we have just two weeks to work as a unit, and to have a team, where you can have players that can pass the ball to each other with their eyes closed, would need time."

Beyond Limits, Shooting Stars, ASVO FC, FC Ebedei secure Optima Energy Gold Cup semi final berths

 

FC Ebedei broke a 12-year jinx in the Optima Energy Gold Cup, as they joined defending champions Beyond Limits, Shooting Stars and Association Sportive de la Vallée de l'Ouémé (ASVO) FC of Benin in the semi-final of the preseason tournament 12th edition.

Beyond Limits sealed their spot after they trounced Ijebu United 4-2 in a thriller to stay top of Group A with 9 points.

After recording a loss on Matchday 1 and a draw on Matchday 2 against Ijebu United, ASVO FC gave themselves a huge boost as the Beninoise team defeated KASAM FA 2-1 to go second in the group with 4 points, while the duo of KASAM FA and Ijebu United waved goodbye to the championship, as they finished third and fourth on the log with 3 points and a point each. 

It was an interesting contest in Group B as the two semi-finalists had to decided on the final Matchday, as Shooting Stars 4points, FC Ebedei 4points, Osun United 1point and newly promoted Ikorodu City 1point, were all in contention for the available two slots. 

At the end of Group B Matchday, 3 fixtures, which were played simultaneously at the Remo Stars Stadium and FC Ebedei Stadium on Tuesday, produced some fireworks. 

It was a five-goal thriller at the Remo Stars Stadium as Ikorodu City missed the chance of making it to the semi-final despite beating Osun United 3-2.

At the FC Ebedei Stadium, the Oliseh Boys were top of their game as they came back from a goal down to share the spoils with Shooting Star, to book their first ever semi-final spot in Optima Energy Gold Cup preseason tournament after 12 attempts. 

Shooting Stars and FC Ebedei became the third and fourth team to book a place in the knockout stage after they garnered 5points each.

Optima Energy Gold Cup: Shooting Stars confirm supremacy over Osun United

 

Osun United were no match for Shooting Stars, who claimed the South-West Derby bragging rights in the 12th edition of the Optima Energy Gold Cup preseason tournament. 

The Group B Matchday 2 fixture played on Sunday at the FC Ebedei Stadium, Sagamu, had Osun United being taught some football lessons, while a poor decision from Mutiu Ganiyu cost his team dearly. 

In a game of two halves, and with two quick second-half goals in the derby. it took the Oluyole Warriors to tear the defence line of Omolubi Giants apart in the sixth minute, and deservedly took the lead after Yaya Idris shot his team in front with a cool finish from close range.

The Omolubi Giants put behind their sloppy play and got energized, as former Shooting Stars striker Ebenezer Odeyemi put the game level after slotting in the ball past Mustapha Lawal in the 13th minute.

It was all to play for in the second half, as both teams went into the break finding the back of goal. 

Shooting Stars put themselves in the driving seat in the second half, as it good play changes the dynamics of the game after being awarded a penalty following a foul by Mutiu Ganiyu on Malachi Ohawume in box, as the 3SC strike was about to convert the inviting cross and Abubakar Aliu made no mistake and scored from the spot to give Shooting Stars the lead.

Two minutes later, Victor Ehibe puts the game under locks and keys for Osun United, scoring the third goal, and sealed the first 3 points for 3SC.

Egyptian, Portuguese, French clubs chasing Rivers United's Kayode

 

As of the last count over five foreign clubs and several players' intermediaries have made genuine inquiries about  Rivers United's Ishaq Rafiu Kayode services despite his club's ouster from the CAF Confederation Cup.

Kayode put up several scintillating performances for Rivers United who began from the CAF Champions League before crashing out to the Egyptian side, Al Masry on away goal rule in the CAF Confederation Cup they stepped down to, despite finishing the tie 2-2 on aggregate.

The former Shooting Stars of Ibadan player scored two goals and had two assists also for the Pride of Rivers in their futile continental cup chase but three Egyptian clubs and two clubs from Portugal and France and several other agents have spoken to his representatives with a view to sealing a contract for him.

A source close to the player opined that the three Egyptian top clubs wanted to conclude the deal before Rivers United returned to Nigeria after their game with Al Masry but officials of the former league champions insisted that all transfer formalities must be completed before they can sanction the deal.

Our correspondent has been further told that Rivers United has vowed not to stand in Kayode's way and any potential deal abroad because he has been a thoroughbred professional and putting all he has for the club's cause. 

Kayode joined Rivers United last season after two successful seasons at 3SC. He spent a season at Remo Stars also. He has been one of the team's standout performers. 

His potential deal abroad may no doubt threaten the club's determination to win the league title as the new league season starts on December 17.

Organizers praise Optima Energy, clubs, others over Ogunjobi Gold Cup success

 

Organizers of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup have expressed their sincere thanks to its proud sponsor, Optima Energy, after a successful hosting of the nation's premium class pre-season tournament.

Remo Stars defeated their Southwest derby rival Shooting Stars 4-0 to become champions of the 9th edition of the tourney which was co-hosted at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne and FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu.

General Coordinator, Tunde Shamsudeen who expressed his delight said, "The success recorded during the Ogunjobi Gold Cup in Ikenne and Sagamu can not be overemphasized, but this could not have been achieved without the huge support from Honourable Kunle Soname, Barrister Churchill Oliseh, President FC Ebedei and a top brand like Optima Energy.

Family members of late Nigeria Football Association (NFA) Secretary-General, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi and other VIPs that attended the final.

"FIFA and CAF certified synthetic pitch installation firm, Alansmith Nigeria Limited for a good job done on the FC Ebedei Stadium which hosted some matches.

"Our other partners, European Football Scouting Platform based in Finland, Afripro and the duo Nigeria indigenous sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear who were also part of our success story.

"Not forgetting also, the participating clubs and their coaches, 2017 champion Niger Tornadoes, MFM FC, FC Ebedei, FC Yobo and Beyond Limits, who used the platform to showcase the football talents we have in the three tiers of our domestic leagues and prepare their teams for the new Nigerian football season.

"We also want to thank the board of Ogun State Football Association lead by Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi for giving the Ogunjobi Gold Cup brand the enabling environment to thrive.

"Also the beautiful game of football can not be complete without match officials, we want to thank as they were professional in their duties all through the tournament.

"Furthermore, I want to thank members of the Sporting media in Nigeria for professionalism and delivery of contents of the pre-season tournament."

The country's first pre-season tournament is also proudly supported by Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Phreestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Club, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Club Owners scribe hails Remo Stars Stadium as huge investment to boost football development in Nigeria

 

The ongoing construction of a multi- billion naira Remo Stars international stadium in Ikenne Ogun State South-west Nigeria has been described as a major boost to the growth and development of football in Nigeria. 

Speaking with Sports Writers on arrival at the stadium project in Ikenne Saturday,  Executive Secretary of the NPFL Club Owners Association Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka described the state of the art facility as a massive investment in the football industry.

Chukwuemeka who was a guest at the final of the Ogunjobi Goldcup preseason tournament took a guided tour of the facility through many standard pitches and commended the Owner of Remo Stars FC for adding value to football and youths development in the country. 

According to him " Critical infrastructure development remains key to rapid growth of football, this facility is massive and a huge investment to develop football, he said.

" Iam very sure that if governments at all levels can replicate such a structure in the 774 local governments areas in Nigeria, then we are good to go, so we must commend Hon. Kunle Soname for this huge investment coming from the private sector to boost football ",he concluded.

Remo Stars maul Shooting Stars to lift Ogunjobi Gold Cup

 

Remo Stars have been crowned champions of the 9th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup after they defeated their Southwest derby rivals 4-0 in the final hosted on Saturday at the Remo Stars Stadium Stadium in Ikenne.

A hat-trick from unsung hero Andy Okpe and one from former Oluyole Warrior striker David Ojukwu was enough for the Sky Blues Stars to humiliate 3SC and win the nation's premium class pre-season tournament after breaking their seventh-time semi-final jinx.

Shooting Stars goalie Detan Ogundare gifted Remo Stars an easy chance to score three out of the four goals the team conceded within 15 minutes owing to his carelessness with his passes to his defensive line.

At the half-hour mark of the game, Remo Stars were the better side in the contest, as they kept the pressuring on Shooting Stars for an opener.

The first chance at goal came in the 26th minute after Tolulope Ojo low drive shoot at Detan Ogundare went off target.

Then, the real chance came in the 42nd minute after Andy Okpe capitalize on Detan's poor clearance pass to his teammate to poke into the net the first goal of the game.

Five minutes into the second half, Ojukwu punished his former team as he made it 2-0 for Remo Stars.

Mercurial midfielder Dayo Ojo take advantage of Detan's poor pass again, to give Ojukwu a pass and the striker made no mistake than to shoot the ball into the net.

Okpe, in the 57th minute then bagged his brace putting the icing on the cake for the Sky Blues Stars nodding in the empty net from Tolulope Ojo's cross to make it 3-0.

As the game near 10 minutes to end the derby, Okpe then scored a brilliant goal with his head to bagge his hat-trick, as he made it 4-0 for the Sky Blues Stars to put the game beyond the reach of the Oluyole Warriors, and took home the match ball.

Victorious Remo Stars then took home the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500, 000) while 3SC got Three hundred thousand Naira (N300, 000) as runners-up.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Ogunbote wants Ogunjobi Gold Cup title to boost Remo Stars' pedigree

Gbenga Ogunbote says he has no special plans for Shooting Stars in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup final, that he could name an unchanged team as the aim is win the trophy on Saturday at the Remo Stars Stadium.

The Oracle who won the tourney as Sharks FC of Port-Harcourt gaffer said, "That we have defeated a former defending champion of the pre-season, Tornadoes is gain saying that Remo Stars deserve to be champions too.

"However, meeting Shooting Stars in the final makes it a difficult one but Remo Stars will go into the the game like it has done in the other games it has played."

Asked if he would name a different team against the Oluyole Warriors, like he did against Tornadoes.

"I have made use of 28 players in the tournament, I may decide to or not to rotate my starting team against 3SC."

Regarding his team's hard fought victory over Tornadoes in Thursday's semi-final, "Forget about our result against Tornadoes, they were a worthy opponents against us in the semi-finals.

"Am looking at the strength of my team, so we played against an NPFL side and you can see the quality they gave to Remo Stars. It's a good one for my players and it's going to boost their confidence level as we go into the new domestic league season.

"We are not going to be carried away by the victories he have recorded in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, the loop holes we noticed in the course of our matches, I want to assure that we will also proffer solutions to them."

Recall ABS FC of Ilorin are the defending champions after they stung Gombe United 3-2 at the last edition in Ilorin.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Detan Ogundare trusts Shooting Stars credentials to win Ogunjobi Gold Cup

The Oluyole Warriors host their Southwest derby rivals Remo Stars in the climax of the 9th edition of the prestigious pre-season tournament at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

Detan, a former Flying Eagles shot stopper said after his saves in the penalty shoot-out against MFM FC propelled Shooting Stars to their first Ogunjobi Gold Cup final.

"'It's another final game for us, and a tough one as both teams are rivals and want to win the Ogunjobi Gold Cup for pride and for fans.

"For any team can win but 3SC has the edge going into Saturday's final. Recall Remo Stars forced us to a draw in the NNL Super 8 Promotion play-off in Enugu and we did beat them recently via penalties in one of the pre-season games. This time around, they can't escape it will be Shooting Stars at the end of 90 minutes." 

His thoughts after he replaced his goalkeeping partner Charles Tembe on the dot of 90 minutes after scores stood at 0-0.

"Not much of a feeling as I knew it was my turn to make an impact in the game and I had the confidence that my team would steal the evening.

"I was so delighted that my coaches believed in me after they introduced me into the game against MFM FC for the penalty shoot-out. 

"They know it's one of my specialty and glad I didn't disappoint after I stopped two of MFM spot kicks."

ABS FC of Ilorin is the defending champions after they stung Gombe United in a 5-goal thriller at the last edition in Ilorin.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Ogunjobi's family, Optima Energy Rep, Osun FA Boss, NPFL Club Owners Scribe for Ogunjobi Gold Cup Final

 

Family members of late Nigeria Football Association (NFA) Secretary-General, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi, representative of Optima Energy, Chairman Osun FA and some big-wigs in Nigeria's football circle will be guests at the final of the 9th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup on Saturday.

Shooting Stars of Ibadan host its Southwest derby rivals Remo Stars in a clash of stars at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

According to the General Coordinator of the nation's premium class pre-season tournament, Tunde Shamsudeen the widow of the late astute football administrator, Chief Mrs Oluwabukola Ogunjobi in the company of her son, Lanre and younger brother of late Ogunjobi, Rotimi Michael will be at the final slated for 3pm.

Expected too is CFO Optima Energy, Mr Lanre Sotunde who are proud sponsors of the 2021 Ogunjobi Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament.

Chairman Osun Football Association, 

Otunba Rasaq Ishola Mustapha, Secretary Osun FA Amoo Abayomi and other members of the board will also storm Ikenne to honour the late legend, who was one-time chairman of the state FA.

Secretary of the Club Owners Association of Nigeria (NPFL), Alloy Chukwuemeka is also among the VIP guest that will watch the epic grand finale.

Astute administrators Tony Rafua, Mojeed Adegbindin, Lekan Kelani, Tunde Fabiyi and host of others have also confirmed to me that they will be in attendance at the final match.

Recall thrice the Ogunjobi Gold Cup was hosted in Ilorin, Chukwuemeka played an important role in ensuring a hitch-free hosting of the tournament.

Apart from the Director of Football providing the needed logistics, his club ABS FC of Ilorin are the defending champions after they stung Gombe United 3-2  at the last edition in Ilorin.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Shooting Stars set up Ogunjobi Gold Cup final clash with Remo Stars

Shooting Stars will go head-to-head with Remo Stars in the final of the 9th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, after they defeated MFM FC 3-2 on penalties in the second semi-final match of the preseason tournament at the FC Ebedei Stadium, Sagamu.

3SC two goalkeepers, Tambe Charles and Detan Ogundare were the unsung heroes in regulation time and during the spot kicks, as their brilliant saves shot the Oluyole Warriors to their first ever final at first attempt.

It was drab first half as both teams failed to create any clear cut chances as the first 45 minutes ended 0-0.

The game got to life in the second half, as in the 63rd minute Alabi Oladayo's shot at goal from a free kick from 30 yards was punched away by Tambe to keep a clean sheet.

Shooting Stars had the chance to win the game from the first touch of substitute Elijah Okigbo, but the midfielder put his striker from Gafar Olafimihan's pass up the woodwork for a goal kick to MFM FC.

The Cameroon shot stopper was called to the rescue again late in the game to deny the Olukoya Boys what could have been the winning goal.

As the clock got to 90 minutes, and with spots kicks to decide the team that will meet Remo Stars in the final, Shooting Stars coach then introduced their penalty specialist goalkeeper Detan Ogundare into the game.

Detan, a former Flying Eagles shot stopper made no mistake in the shoot out as he stopped two MFM FC penalties to send 3SC to the final.

The Southwest Derby battle of stars will ignite the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on fire on Saturday.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Omololu talks up Shootings Stars chances to win Ogunjobi Gold Cup

After helping Shooting Stars to advance to the semifinals of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, Waheed Omololu said the team's focus presently is to win the Nigeria's first pre-season tournament.

The 3SC captain said after the game against Tornadoes, "It was a good game, I feel the Oluyole Warriors were more determined to win the tie to ease off the pain we felt after losing to them in the Nigerian National League (NNL) Super 8 play-off final in Enugu.

"We were a bit lackadaisical against them in Enugu, but our attitude in last Saturday's game was that of seriousness, as we fired all cylinders against them.

"The team is gradually taking shape and growing from strength to strength as the games come.

"Now that we have sealed a semi-final spot and perhaps not needing the last game to qualify, the focus will be to get to the finals and at the end add the Ogunjobi Gold Cup title to our trophy cabinet by winning it.

Speaking ahead of Thursday semifinal contest against MFM FC at the FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu he noted; "It won't come easy either but with the level, we are now the onus is on Shooting Stars to win it. We are poised to now give our hundred and fifty per cent in the next matches."

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Phreestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Olalekan targets Shooting Stars' scalp with MFM in Ogunjobi Gold Cup semifinal

 

Olamilekan Gabriel says his MFM FC will go all out against Shooting Stars when they meet in the Southwest Derby semi-final clash in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup on Thursday at the FC Ebedei Stadium.

This will be the first meeting of both teams in the country's prestigious pre-season tournament for teams from the three tiers of the domestic leagues.

The Olukoya Boys who finished second in Group A behind Remo Stars set eyes on another final if they go past the Oluyole Warriors. 

Recall the first time they made it to the final in 2016, the Olukoya Boys lost 4-3 on spot-kicks to Lobi Stars at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode.

Speaking ahead of the game, "This is a semi-final and a few things are at stake. I except a different ball game against 3SC, as they will come out strong.

"Am optimistic that my lads will be clinical, as we have shown them the few mistakes they made in the game against Remo Stars. I expect nothing short of victory from them as the Oluyole Warriors are not invincible."

As regards the loss to Remo Stars, "It was a match we could have taken a point from, we should have won it in the first half of the lads had taken the half-chances that came their way. 

"Mind you, Remo Stars were not the better side in the meeting of the two Southwest Derby teams. It's a lesson learnt and that will help the coaching crew fine-tune the squad as we are still going to lock horns against them when the season kicks off."

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Remo Stars set up semifinal clash with Tornadoes in Ogunjobi Gold Cup

 

Remo Stars have set-up a tough semi-final clash with Niger Tornadoes in the ongoing Ogunjobi Gold Cup holding in Ikenne and Sagamu.

It's the 7th time the Sky Blues Stars were making it to the last four stage in the nation's first pre-season tournament. The clash of the two gladiators will be staged at the Remo Stars Stadium on Thursday morning (8am).

Remo Stars who became the only team to win all its Group B did so comfortably after they piped MFM FC by a lone goal and put two goals past FC Yobo.

In their last game against the Nationwide League One (NLO) team, the first real chance came to the Sky Blues Stars in the 21st minute after Qudus Akani was hacked down by an FC Yobo defender less than an inch away from the box. 

It was a close shave for goalkeeper Stanley Ihebueme, as Nduka Junior's effort from the free-kick went wide from the side goalpost.

Six minutes later, Remo Stars should have been one-goal up with another big chance for Nduka but his flicks with his head from a free-kick go off the woodwork.

At the half-hour mark, FC Yobo could have taken the lead but goalkeeper Bankole Kayode made a sharp reflex save via a free-kick from Ibrahim Abideen.

Remo Stars then got the reward for their hard work in the 43rd minute following a delight  flick from Michael Osoata inside FC Yobo's box.

The Sky Blues Stars earned much of the ball possession in the second half and in the 66th minute got their second goal.

FC Yobo defence was punished for its schoolboy defending in the box after Tolulope Ojo got past his marker to nod in Remo Stars winning goal.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Phreestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

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.

Ogunjobi Gold Cup: Alausa charges Shootings Stars to go gun blazing against Tornadoes

As Shooting Stars put behind their shocking 3-2 loss to Niger Tornadoes in the NNL Super 8 final in Enugu, Kabiru Alausa has told fans of the club that the team will come out smoking on Saturday.

The Oluyole Warriors and Ikon Allah Boys go head-to-head at the FC Ebedei Stadium in one of the premium star games of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup pre-season tournament.

Alausa who guided Shooting Stars to their first victory at the Ogunjobi Gold Cup from the dugout was full of delight after his lads came from behind to subdue FC Ebedei 3-1 on Matchday One.

"It was a good win and wasn't an easy game against FC Ebedei, kudos to my players for showing class despite the fatigue.

"Tough one shuttling from one pre-season tournament to another, however, it's good for the team and the coaches to ascertain the quality of the squad they have going into the season."

About the game against Tornadoes, the Nigerian Professional Football League(NPFL) legend and former highest goal hunter said the game was not different from the ones we have played before now.

"It is a game we want to win to boost the confidence level of the squad. We'll come out smoking as the players will put in all the energy they have against Tornadoes.

Shooting Stars and Tornadoes are joint leaders in Group B with 3points but the Oluyole Warriors are top on the log with superior goals for, of three while the Ikon Allah Boys have two

Taye Muritala: Former Nigeria U23 invitee joins the Tourists' train

 

By Wale Mustapha

Former Nigeria U23 invitee, Taye Muritala has joined Wikki Tourists from 3SC, with the club beating off rivals including Gombe United, Nasarawa United and Plateau United.

The versatile defender was widely regarded as one of Shooting Stars' best young performers last term, he helped the club gain promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

His move to Bauchi represents something of a coup for the Giant Elephants.

Gombe United, Nasarawa United and Plateau United were reportedly among the other clubs chasing the ex-Gateway United man's services.

"I'm delighted to be involved with Wikki Tourists," the 21-year-old told the Media on Friday. 

"This is a great opportunity for me to demonstrate my qualities at the highest level and to continue my progress at a club with high ambitions.

"I'm looking forward to starting the NPFL season with Wikki Tourists and I'm going to put all my energy into helping the team achieve its goals at the end of the season."

Tornadoes coach, Bala Abubakar wants to beat Shooting Stars again

 

Coach Bala Abubakar says his Niger Tornadoes side is not wary of Shooting Stars when they lock horns on Matchday 2 of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup at the FC Ebedei Stadium on Saturday.

Recall Tornadoes were classic when they beat the Oluyole Warriors at the Nigerian National League(NNL) Super 8 play-off final to emerge champions of the country's second division league.

Bala whose Tornadoes needed two second half goals to go past Beyond Limits said ahead one of the high profile games of the prestigious pre-season tourney in Nigeria, "I except a game full of fireworks.

"3SC would want to come out strong with a view of avoiding a second defeat from Tornadoes within the space of two months.

"I saw a few of their matches recently and I must say they have improved but it is going to be a different ball game as this is a different tournament from the NNL Super 8.

"Good we have launched our campaign in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup in a right footing, I know this will spur my team to go smoking against Shooting Stars."

Tornadoes who shares 3points with 3SC are second on Group B log while the Ibadan Landlords have three goals the Ikon Allah has two.

The country's first pre-Season tournament is sponsored by Optima Energy, and its proudly supported by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.