Dino SC adds gloss to Lagos Supremacy Cup

 

Fast rising football outfit, Dino SC have confirmed they have entered into partnership with the organisers of the Lagos Supremacy Cup. 

The enterprising owner of the team, Mr Samuel Omamofe Columbus has agreed to add gloss to the competition with donation of table water.

In a statement via Official WhatsApp Platform of the tournament, Mr Columbus wrote, in our support for this year's Lagos Supremacy Cup, we would be donating 100 packs of table water to the organisers for the tourney. Please accept our token of support.

Brain behind Lagos Supremacy Cup and CEO 36 Lion Investment, Hajj Liameed Gafar, added: "We are always looking to join forces with exciting and forward-thinking brands. Dino SC falls comfortably into that category.

"Mr Columbus is a lifelong partner of Lagos Supremacy Cup and it's fantastic we can keep this in the family. I'm sure clubs will love the water and we are excited to see that this competition is on the lips of people in the grassroots."

The Lagos Supremacy Cup will hold from November 14th to 17th at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.

AFCON title dream plus 30 others things you don't know about Sporting Lagos' poster boy Saturday Okon

 

Popular football forum on social media called "Naija Footballers Forum" goes personal with Sporting Lagos center forward Saturday Okon and these were some of what he had to say about life as a footballer....

Q. Where would you like to settle after your career?

Ans. I would like to settle in UK because that is my dream country after football.

 

Q. Which is the most interesting city you have visited so far?

Ans. Abuja.

Q. Who is your dream girl?

Ans. I have a dream girl I wish to marry next year....for now let just keep it secret.

Q. What would you have been were you not a footballer?

Ans. I would have been a musician.

Q. What is your biggest dream?

Ans. My biggest dream is to win African Nations Cup, AFCON and win Africa footballer of the year.

Q. What sports brand do you like most?

Ans. I prefer Nike...because is very light.

Q. What other sports do you enjoy outside football?

Ans. Basketball.

Q. Which is the best Stadium you have played in?

Ans. I love Akwa United Stadium (the nest of champions) the best in Nigeria.

Q. What are your hobbies?

Ans. I love watching movies and listening to music and dancing.

Q. Who is your favourite Nigerian player?

Ans. Victor Moses.

Q. Favourite foreign player?

Ans. Neymar Jr. I love the way he plays.

Q. Best league in the world?

Ans. The English Premier League, EPL.

Q. Your proudest moment in football?

Ans. Winning Akwa United in the semi final of the Naija Super 8 and also the MVP.

Q. Your worst moment in football?

Ans. The lost to Remo last week.

Q. Who is the best player you have played alongside?

Ans. Okorie Ekenson 

Q. Who is the one person you dream of facing on the pitch?

And. Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona.

Q. Best game you have played?

Ans. It was against Abeokuta Stormers in Asaba for promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL.

Q. Who do you always hang out with in your club?

Ans. Ekene Olisema.

Q. Your best coach?

Ans. Prince Dede, my grassroot coach..because he is the one who made me what I am today...that everyone is calling me all over Nigeria...soon it will be the world.

Q. Your best friend 

Ans. Christian Nwoke..our goalkeeper.

Q. Your best way to relax?

Ans. Listening to musc.

Q. Favourite food?

Ans. I love plantain and egg.

Q. Favourite drink?

Ans. Juice.

Q. Favourite car?

Ans. Venza.

Q. What is your favourite music?

Ans. Perfect....by Ed Sheeran.

Q. Your favourite music artist?

Ans. Ed Sheeran.

Q. Which is the best movie you have watched recently?

Ans. Breaking Bad.

Q. Greatest personality you have ever met?

Ans. That is my girl.

Q. Who would you most like to meet one day?

Ans. I will like to meet Erling Halland of Manchester City.

Q. What is your philosophy on life?

Ans. Just live one day at a time.

NFF: Thank you so much for talking with Naija Footballers Forum. We hope you will avail yourself when next we call on you.

Okon: Sure..... thanks 🙏 for the time you people spend with me.

Tijani Babangida to head Senator Sani UBA Unity Football Competition

The Kaduna State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Honourable Sadiq Mamman Lagos has inaugurated a 25-Man Main Organizing Committee, (MOC) of Senator Uba Sani Unity Football Cup Competition 2023/2024.

While inaugurating the committee, Mamman Lagos tasked the  members to organize a befitting competition targeted at discovering talents from the grassroots across all the 23 Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.

“You must organize a football competition that will serve as an avenue for recruiting raw talents from the grassroots; a competition we will be proud of.” he said.

Speaking further, the Commissioner called on them to be fair to all and not to allow their Interest to interfere with the general aim of the competition, 

"You should organize a competition that the people of Kaduna State will be happy and proud to associate with”.

According to the Commissioner, it may interest you to know that youth and sports development form a critical part of the ‘SUSTAIN AGENDA’ of this administration, and Governor Uba Sani is committed to not just developing the youths through sports, but to the general youth empowerment through other economic activities in such a way that they will contribute positively to the development of the state”, Mamman Lagos stated.

“With these few words, I inaugurate you and I wish you success in this endeavor. I assure you that my doors are always open to your needs toward the success of the competition”. He concluded.

Responding Chairman of the Committee, former International and Super Eagles of Nigeria, Tijani Babangida who appreciated the ministry for finding him worthy to lead the MOC.

He expressed confidence that the best caliber of members on the committee are drivers of grassroots football.

“I am so happy that the people serving in this committee are people who are engaged in organizing grassroots football competitions and I am lucky to be their chairman”.

Tijani Babangida said each of the 23 local governments will present a team to compete for honor during the competition. He said.

Ten teams to jostle for honors, trophy at Ave/Ihitte-Uboma Super League

Ten grassroot teams have been listed to display their beautiful football artistry in the first edition of the Ave/Ihitte-Uboma Super League, billed for the Uboma Secondary School Stadium Complex.

PMC Okeke, Chief Executive Officer of Ave International Football Club in Isinweke, Ihitte-Uboma of Imo State gave the hint in a chat with the Media Channel of the Nationwide League One (NLO) team.

Okeke, a well-breed football administrator said: "The Ave/Ihitte-Uboma Super League is geared towards hosting 10 clubs within the Local Government Area, the passion for that is to further develop and discover raw football talents and also engaging the youths into meaningful sporting activities.

"Their catchment area is within Ihitte-Uboma, though each club has the opportunity to register five (5) external players. The essence is for us to host the best tournament with a professional touch and play, as the plan is to show our matches via live stream on television and on our YouTube Channel and also to promote the unity and diversity of our people. In this modern time, football has proven to be the best platform to unify people regardless of race, tribe, or religion, and we thought it very interesting to get involved in this project.

"Some of the best players that will be discovered from the tournament will be recruited into Ave International Football Club for the 2024/2025 NLO season. Others will be scouted by some Nigerian Premier Football League clubs and our European partners. It will be an explosive tourney that will last for 10 or 12 days."

Speaking on his club's mission and vision for football. "I have a very strong passion for football and here at Ave International Football Club, we have a vision and mission for the beautiful game. Our vision is to become a very reputable club in Nigeria and Africa, and also a club that develops talents by giving them role care that each player requires, not players developing on their own.

"We currently have a senior team and a feeder team, our feeder team played in the final of the Nationwide League One/Ikukuoma Super Cup that was held a few months ago. Our teams are well-groomed and that is why it got to the final and lost on the lotteries of penalty."

Meanwhile, the organizers of the Ave/Ihitte-Uboma Super League have named a 10-man Local Organizing Committee (LOC) headed by key Ovuegbe as Chairman.

Other members are Patrick Chiwuike, Jude Uju, CC boy Anyalewechi, Goddy Ndudi, Saint John Okeke- Ave Director of Sports, Dee Chima Ibezim- President Supporters Club, Cheta Ojukwu- Ave Football Club Director of Social and Strategic Mobilization and Chinemerem Frank, while Ogechi Marcelina Obi will serve as Secretary.

Eight hidden gems to keep your eyes on at Lagos Supremacy Cup

 

Whether you're looking for some insight or amusement, take a look at our picks for the players to keep an eye on in the Lagos Supremacy Cup.

NB: This is the concluding part of the series......

Wasiu Jato [Corinthians]

Technically proficient with both feet, Jato can operate comfortably as an attacking midfielder, can beat defenders with pace or trickery, is excellent at pulling away from defenders to make himself available for a pass.

Egbedokun Samson [Mavlon]

A technically proficient midfielder, who's displayed a decent eye for a pass, Samson usually plays in a "number six" role as a deep-lying playmaker in a three-man midfield. 

However, he can use his talents in a more advanced midfield role, or as part of a double-pivot in a two-man midfield. He featured at the 2023 ViaRaggio Cup in Italy.

Ezeno Chidera [Imperial]

An all-round forward in the mould of Thierry Henry, the youngster is comfortable across the entire forward line, has great technique and crucially possesses the all-important goalscoring instinct. 

Quick, mobile and hard-working, Chidera uses his body well and has a good aerial game.

Stephen Tambari [SGFC Athletics]

A versatile defensive player, Tambari has been used at right-back and holding midfield, but is best suited to a centre-back role. Comfortable in possession, rather physically imposing and able to bring the ball out from the back. Tambari possesses the attributes to suit a centre-back role in the modern game.

Amos Mata [Dino SC]

Able to operate as the main striker, a second striker or an inside-forward, Amos Mata is the goal bomber of Dino SC. He is usually seen popping up across the pitch, usually in the half spaces. The lad is considered one of the best young talents in the TCC League.

Oyedokun Tosin [Ikorodu City]

Normally a "number ten", Tosin can also drift in from the right and has even played as an out-and-out striker at times.

 

Skilful, well-balanced, excellent at turning away from pressure, and capable of picking up dangerous positions, Tosin's vision is his most impressive attribute. He is superb at picking out reverse passes which can split defences and play in teammates running in-behind the opposing back-line. 

Ugochukwu Iwuala [DN10]

Iwuala is a fantastic goal poacher, who can shoot with both feet and knows where to be to sniff out the chances around the six yard box. He always presses the centre-half's not giving them time on the ball to pick a pass out. 

A big thing from his game that he has a fantastic first touch which is so important in a poacher's game if they want to be deadly in and around the box. Iwuala is also quite versatile in terms of playing on his own or in a pair upfront playing in numerous systems.

Kehinde Ibrahim [36 Lion]

Kehinde was part of the Nigeria squad that reached quarter final at the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup. He featured in some games for the team. One of Kenny's main weapons is his electric burst of speed and frightening turn of pace.  

Raw and unrefined, there is a frenetic, almost roadrunner style, about the way he tears up and down the flank and is part of what makes him both so enjoyable to watch and so difficult to defend against.

Typically hugging the touchline and giving 36 Lion plenty of width, Kenny's fleet of foot helps stretch the opposition by either isolating the full back or getting in behind the defence.

Dino SC creates new TCC League record with fourth consecutive victories

 

Dino Sporting Club has made history in The Creative Championship, TCC League on Saturday becoming the first team to win their first four games. 

Under the guidance of coach Godwin Gibson, they secured a 2-0 victory against Imperial FC at Otunba Dipo Dina's Stadium in the Matchday Four of new season.

In a goalless first half, Dino Sporting Club shifted into high gear and scored twice during the second 45 minutes.

Ogonna Hyacinth, their star player, opened the scoring with his fifth goal of the season, while Chidubem Diji sealed the historic win with his first goal of the campaign. 

With this achievement, Dino Sporting Club maintains its perfect 100% record, leading the league table after four games.

Club presidents you want to meet at Lagos Supremacy Cup (Part 1)

Teams have been preparing so hard for the upcoming Lagos Supremacy Cup and well respected individuals have been working behind the scenes to ensure their teams are ready.

Who are the Club Presidents? Find out in our latest series.....

5. Engineer Samuel Olatunji Okuku [Tripple 44]

Engineer Samuel Olatunji Okuku created Tripple 44 for talent development. The team encourages development in football skills, while understanding the need for continued education. 

Tripple 44 has watered the lives of players like Peter Olawale, Emmanuel Adeyemo, Abel Ogwuche, David Habila and Ozor Okeke.

Tripple 44 have been able to create an enabling environment that promotes learning and enhances football performances, ensuring that all players and coaches enrolling in their programs will improve their skills and increase the chances of reaching professional football.

4. Samuel Omamofe Columbus [Dino SC]

The ambitious outfit was established by Samuel Omamofe Columbus.

Mr Columbus founded the club in order to be relevant and also continue to a contribute his quota to the development of youth football in Nigeria and Africa. Despite being a very young club, the Lions' Den have won laurels on the local scene.

Dino operate a unique, age-appropriate programme and provide their players with experiences that will help them to understand the values of football, to grow and succeed in life, and to play professional football at the highest level. To do that, the club employ experts with a wide range of skills both on and off the pitch.

Seun Egbewole, Timilehin Oluwaseun Adekunle and Blessing Essien Edet are alumnus of the club have taken their talents abroad.

3. Dickson Kabu Nwakaeme [DN10]

The club was established to build innate potentials, discover raw talents in kids and bring the best out of them. It is the project of Dickson Kabu Nwakaeme. The humble Kabu featured for Halmstad BK, KuPS, Aalborg BK, SLNA, Kelantan, Pahang FA, Angers SCO and Daejeon Korail FC in the past.

Coaches at the DN10 prioritise development of a player's physical attributes and ball-handling skills.

This institution places great deal of emphasis on footballing skill, which is why its graduates are making moves abroad.

Prosper Nwachukwu and Abuchi Onuoha are graduates of the team who are playing abroad.

2. Seyi Olofinjana and Bankole Atiba [Imperial FC]

Founded on 1st August 2009, Imperial was borne out of the careful introspection and desire of the visionary founders Seyi George Olofinjana and Bankole Atiba to give back to society.

The club, through its motto, Be the Best, looks to use football as a medium to make people better. Nottingham Forest and Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi is a graduate of the team.

The club offers something different and something unique by developing players both on and off the pitch, educating them through experiences that will shape their progression into young adults and giving them skills that can be used throughout their lives. 

It will interest you to know that Mr Olofinjana played for some finest clubs like Wolverhampton Wanderers, Hull City, Stoke City and Cardiff City in his glittering career. He was capped 48 times by Nigeria.

1. Dosu Jospeh MON [Dosu Joseph Football Club]

The quest to create a successful football entity that will last for generations necessitated formation of Dosu Joseph Football Club.

The objective of the team is to help groom the next generation of Nigeria’s football talent. The club is owned by former Super Eagles goalkeeper Dosu Joseph MON. The Atlanta 1996 Olympic games Gold medallist was on the books of Julius Berger and Reggiana in the past.

The goal of Dosu Joseph is to develop the entire potentials of footballers, national and international, soccer players in an unbeatable atmosphere that helps them discover and achieve their maximum level. 

Ifegwu Ojukwu a footballer plying his trade in Asia is a product of Dosu Joseph Football Club.

10 players tipped to light up Lagos Supremacy Cup

Which youngsters will break out at the 18th edition of Lagos Supremacy Cup in Lagos and become stars of the future?

We run the rule on 10 players in Part 2 of our series, as countdown for Lagos Supremacy Cup continues.

10. Taiwo Popoola [Corinthians]

An all-round forward with great movement, sharp finishing and excellent technique, Taiwo Popoola is the one man riot for Corinthians. 

He likes to occupy central defenders whenever his team is on transition. A tough customer to deal with, Popo will be a handful for defenders with his direct running and energy.

9. Habeeb Mubarak [SGFC]

Raw but exciting, the playmaker is always the livewire for SGFC whenever they need inspiration. Mubarak hardly gives the ball away. He is an intelligent player with wicked passes at his feet. 

He has quick feet and an opportunistic eye for goal. The lad can also function as a wing back. The Lagos Supremacy Cup could be a great opportunity to justify the hype around him.

8. Okoro Hycainth Ugonna [Dino SC]

Okoro has the lighting pace of a 100m sprinter, dazzling footwork and, crucially, the bravado that torments opposition defenders and makes him a joy to watch when he has space to run into. 

While not the finished article, the potential is clear to see.  Given the way the tournament can make names in an instant and then see them disappear to Europe in the next, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him making a move abroad.

7. Akinbiyi Sodiq [Tripple 44]

Sodiq is your archetypal versatile defensive midfielder, capable of playing as either the principal holding midfielder or as the more forward-thinking of a double pivot duo, due to his mobility, passing and tactical discipline. He plays like Frenchman N'golo Kante. 

Always looking to receive the ball from the centre backs, he retains and recycles possession well, creating smooth transitions from defence to attack. Interesting material to keep a close eye on.

6. Isaiah Edwin [DN10]

There is a youngster on the books of DN10. He is named Isaiah Edwin. A breakout starlet from the street, Edwin has been well moulded by coach Olajide Williams. 

The teenager is a tall, elegant central midfielder who orchestrates his team's play with his excellent range of passing and eye for a defence-splitting through ball.

5. Caleb Okereke [FC Bethel]

You can always rely on FC Bethel and their reservoir to give youth a chance and their current squad does not disappoint. One player who looks as if he'll have an increasingly important role at the Supremacy Cup is versatile attacking midfielder Caleb Okereke. 

The starlet possesses great vision, exquisite passing and a smooth running style, which has seen him compared to Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne. 

4. Jeremiah Christopher [Broad City]

An elegant, unique and skilful forward, Christopher is dazzling the Broad City faithful with his invention and audacity.

Typically a left-sided wide forward but able to play anywhere across the front line, Christo is equal parts scorer and creator as he effortless glides past defenders with his sublime footwork and slips in delicate through-balls. But there is a steel and determination to his game too, making it hard to muscle him off the ball. Voltage as he is also called, blends technical and physical qualities which make him a joy to watch and his potential is limitless.

3. Waliu Ojetoye [Ikorodu City]

Ikorodu City's squad is brimming with interesting young prospects. One of them is Waliu Ojetoye.

A lovely crosser and comfortable on the ball, Ojetoye loves to get forward like the legendary Dani Alves and has the secret weapon of the Oga Boys. He is intelligent, strong, calculative and technically grounded. 

2. Eric Ologe [Imperial]

Imperial FC have had a steady stream of exciting prospects coming through the ranks. Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi is a graduate of the team and the production line isn't showing signs of slowing up. Defensive midfielder Eric Ologe is the Army General of his team. 

He must have taken some tips from co owner of Imperial FC, Seyi Olofinjana who had an accomplished career as Super Eagles defensive midfielder.

The hardworking Ologe is a steely midfielder who can cover protect the backline for 120 minutes without getting tired. He is strong defensively and aerially, as well as one who offers potent attacking threat.

1. John Alex [36 Lion]

Dubbed the next Patrick Vieira, box-to-box midfielder Alex could be one of the revelations of the tourney. A powerful and muscular presence in the centre of the park, Pankere has also shown his penchant for driving forward and unleashing low driven shots from range, on top of the noteworthy defensive side to his game too.

He was a member of the Nigeria U16 Future Eagles team that travelled to Japan. He is in SS3 with heart of a PHD holder.

Lagos Supremacy Cup: Hanif, Agada, three others special talents to look out for (Part 1)

 

The Lagos Supremacy Cup has developed a reputation for being an event that showcases some of the best young talents in Nigeria. Previous alumni include: Colin Sor, Quadri Liameed, Solomon Agbalaka, Tijani Muhamed, Ade Oguns and Samson Akinyoola … the list could go on.  

With the tournament around the corner, we've selected five players to look out for at the 18th edition of Lagos Supremacy Cup.

NB: This is part 1 of the series of players to watch at the tournament.

5. Akindele Ramadan Ayatu [Dosu Joseph Football Club]

Ayatu's strongest trait is his keen eye for goal, and the movement on and off the ball which allows him to create chances for himself. Dosu Joseph Football Club's flexibility in offensive positions means that he will be expected to contribute throughout all phases of play. 

However, the youngster's astute knowledge of the game, and his unpredictability in possession allows him to drive his team's attacks forward.

He bagged 18 goals in 16 matches at the Ikeja Divisional Football league last season.

4. Moses Ekundayo [FC Bethel]

The comparison here is an easy one. Moses Ekundayo is a winger who plays like France skipper Kylian Mbappe. That said he has showed willingness to get his foot in when FC Bethel presses high up the pitch during matches in the grassroots.

Ekundayo is adept at finishing chances as he is at creating them.

At his best he usually shows great technical skill and a willingness to dribble the ball into the box before squaring the ball back to a forward. If you hadn't guessed yet, he's the new Mbappe.

3. Sanusi Hanif [Broad City]

The forward has been brilliant for Broad City at the current TCC season. 

Hanif has lightening pace and isn't scared to take on his opposite number with a touch of skill or burst of acceleration. He singlehandedly destroyed Beyond Limits in a recent game.

2. Ozor Victor Okeke [Tripple 44]

Okeke can be described as a proper modern ball playing defensive midfielder. He can also play anywhere at the back whenever needed. He comes as a very dedicated and passionate footballer. 

Linus uses his technique to good use for aerial duels and headed clearances. He is very strong in the air, capable of surviving under pressure. His enthusiasm to help the team is visible by his tactical awareness.

The lad's tremendous strength makes it very difficult to him push off the ball. He is extremely comfortable in possession and is an accomplished passer of the ball with possessing a rich variety of passes. The 17-year-old was part of Golden Eaglets' team at the 2023 U17 Africa Cup of Nations.

1. Agada Charles Adah [Mavlon]

Standing at 1.75m, Agada Charles Adah certainly isn't the tallest of strikers but he is very strong for his height. He's able to shield the ball from the opposition rather well, meaning his hold up play is much better than expected. 

However, when given space to run with the ball or behind a defence he can cause havoc. His blistering pace allows him to exploit a high line held by an opposition defence whilst his smart movement allows him to create space within the box to get into a goal scoring position which is a rare trait to have for someone so young and raw.

The youngster notched two goals for Mavlon at the last edition of the prestigious ViaReggio Cup in Italy. He was also part of the Golden Eaglets' squad to the 2023 U17 Africa Cup of Nations. Keep an eye on him!

Samuel Friday James: Nigerian teenage goalkeeper set to sign for Charlton Athletic

By Wale Mustapha

English championship side, Charlton Athletic are set to offer a professional contract to Nigeria teenage goalkeeper, Samuel Friday James after a successful three months trials. 

James was able to convince Charlton officials with his tremendous agility and talents between the sticks throughout his developmental training programmes and also impressed in all the test games featured.

His performances how however convinced the technical crew and management of the club that a raw diamond has landed on the side of the London based club.

It was therefore not a surprise with the decision of Charlton Athletic to offer the young talented goalkeeper from Mavlon FC, a modest NLO club,  a contract at just 17 years old.

Sporting Lagos, a club in the elite league of Nigeria will not forget in a hurry the sublime display of James in a friendly game that ended 3-3. 

The goalkeeping treasure denied Sporting Lagos some goalscoring opportunities that would have wrapped up the game in their favour.

Some European clubs have been monitoring James after his heroic performance with Mavlon FC at the Viareggio Cup Tournament that was held in Italy in March this year. Interestingly, it is Charlton Athletic that beat the rest to the signature of the ball- playing goalkeeper.

Fortune is already smiling at James since the first week he arrived the club. He only had few training sessions with the U-19 before he was upgraded to the U-21 due to his performances.

Within a fortnight, he was given access to train with the senior team of  Charlton Athletic and he has continued to show exceptional quality, hence the decision to seal a transfer deal between the England club and Mavlon Fc by offering a pre- professional contract to the goalkeeping jewel.

Organizers unveil 12 teams for 2023 Lagos Supremacy Cup

 

Twelve (12) clubs would participate at the 18th edition of Lagos Supremacy Cup, Organizers have revealed.

Lagos Supremacy Cup participants was revealed via the Official WhatsApp Group of the tournament on Tuesday morning.

The grassroot competition will hold from November 14th to 17th at Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

36 Lion, Ikorodu City, DN10, Corinthians, SGFC and FC Bethel have been included in the tourney.

Others are Dosu Joseph Football Club, Imperial FC, Broad City, Dino SC, Tripple 44 and Mavlon FC.

The 18th edition of Lagos Supremacy Cup is supported by 36 Lion Investment, Diamond Sports Management and IFMM. 

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. 

The competition is tagged "No Offside! 

Operation Mark Your Man!"

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

The goal is to find more talents from the country, 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.

Glory Ogbonna: Super Falcons star floats football tourney to foster unity talent development

Over 150 footballers from eight communities in Ovungwu, Isialangwa Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria have registered for the Glory Ogbonna Men’s Football competition, which is set to hold from October 22 to 29 December, 2023.

The tournament is organized by the Super Falcons defender, Glory Ogbonna to give back to her society, develop sports amongst youth as well as strengthening peace and unity in the communities.

Ahead of the tournament, the defender encouraged players to exhibit good behavior, character, and friendship, displaying good spirit of sportsmanship.

She sternly warned against engaging in negative activities like drugs, cultism, or robbery while pursuing a sports career.

The winner of the competition will go home with N250,000 ( Two hundred and fifty thousand naira) while the second and third position will get N150,000  (One hundred and fifty thousand naria) and N100,000 (One hundred thousand naria) respectively.

Individual awards have also been set aside for the highest goal scorer, fair play award and player of the tournament.

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.

TCC League: Ogonna Hyacinth inspires Dino Sporting Club to big win at Dannaz FC

 

Dino Sporting Club continues their impressive start to the 2023/2024 Creative Championship League campaign with a commanding 3-0 win at Dannaz on Saturday.

The Godwin Gibson's tutored side arrived Onikan Stadium, Lagos, with much confidence following their opening day 4-1 win over Atlantic Business FC last weekend.

The first half was a cagey affairs as both sides cut each other out and went into the break unscratched.

Dino Sporting Club however found a way past their hosts in the second 45 minutes and scored three times, with their talisman Ogonna Hyacinth heavily involved in the goals.

Chidubem Diji netted the first goal following an assist Ogonna Hycainth.

Hyacinth added the second few minutes later, before Christian Nwachukwu sealed the memorable win with the third goal.

The victory keeps Dino Sporting Club top of the table with six maximum points with seven goals scored and one conceeded.

TCC League Preview: Dino SC takes scoring mood to Dannaz

 

Dino’s 4-1 win against Atlantic Business was the first time they scored four goals on MatchDay 1. They will be hoping to continue their rampant start to the season when they travel to face Dannaz.

If they’re to make the most of their first home game this season, Coach Fatai’s must first find their scoring boots. Dannaz drew blanks in their opening game of the season, falling to Sporting Lagos. Two losses in a row is too costly to afford at the moment.

The hosts can draw inspiration from a similar meeting that happened months back. Last season, both sides met on MatchDay 2, with Dannaz outscoring their opponents in a five-goal thriller. Coach Fatai won’t mind a similar outcome this weekend. But can they keep Coach Godwin’s boys at bay and get the win?

STAT ATTACK

It’s the second time in a row both sides are meeting on MatchDay 2 of the league season. Coincidence

MAN TO WATCH

Hyacinth Ogonna Okoro (Dino)

His double in the first game earned him the Man of the Match award. It also makes him one to watch out for in this clash.

"We played against a well drilled and disciplined FULAFIA team", - Usman Adams

Coach Usman Adams of Nasarawa United has hailed the performances of the Federal University of Lafia boys after his side struggled to beat the University boys by 2 goals to nil at the Lafia City Stadium.

Ahead of the opening game of the 23/24 NNL season, Nasarawa United battled FULafia FC at the Lafia City Stadium.

In the keenly contested event, the University boys showed grit in early stages of the game but it was the Solid Miners as Nasarawa United is popularly known that went ahead through a rebound effort from Anas Yusuf after Joseph Omale saved King Osanga's initial shot. 

The goal however brought out the best in the Federal University boys as they pour men forward in search of an equalizer and they came close twice, first Isaac Jerry in goal denied Solomon Ityo from close range before Longji's effort went wild.

The University boys should had even the scored when Christopher Michael sent in a sweet pass to Solomon Ityo who rounded up the man in goal for Nasarawa United but Emeka Oyeama was at the right place at the right time to clear the goal bound effort in the goal line.

Fulafia boys kept asking all the questions but in the turn of the second half it was Hassan Adamu that came close for United after beating David Chuks for pace but Joseph Omale was on hand to race clear his line to deny the former Kano Pillars and Kwara United striker from increasing the tally.

The trio of Ogwu Agaba Edwin, Solomon Ityo  and Terry all made way for Shawrzak Dakum Zaks, Hassan Muhammad and Salim Abubakar and the latter made an instant impact when he took on Manga Muhammad to set up Hassan Muhammad but the attacker's effort was somehow deflected for a corner.

With ten minutes remaining, Nasarawa United got their second of the game when Sabo Akurba got to the end of an inswinger from Mubarak to chest home the ball beyond the reach of Omale.

Salim Abubakar thought he had gotten a consolation when he picked up the ball from Hassan Muhammad to skip past Manga Muhammad but his effort narrowly went off for a goal kick as the referee signaled the final whistle.

Technical Adviser of Nasarawa United, Coach Usman Adams while speaking with the Fulafia Director Of Sports Mr Simeon Onah, he revealed that the University boys gave him a good side despite not been a professional side, they gave him something to think about as they showed courage and discipline.

"We Played Against A very fit side today. Solid from the defense to their attack, a well drilled and disciplined side".

"You guys gave us a good fight, D match opened my eyes better to enable me adjust quickly with barely 2weeks to kickoff, He concluded".

As Nasarawa United continues with their build up to the forthcoming Nigeria National League, The University boys will also be preparing for the HiFL, NUGA games and the Mailafia.

Sport Minister applauds 'SportMeetTech' for matching technology innovation with sports

 

The Honorable Minister for Sport Senator John Owan Enoh, has commended the organiser of the Sportmeettech, speaking through a representative from the ministry Mrs Iyeneme Johnson.

While praising the organiser for choosing a more appropriate topic that is in line with the vision of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, "How Sport Technology Can Contribute Towards President Tinubu Target Of Training 1 Million Technical Youth Talents By 2025", saying it is indeed an appropriate topic to discuss when Nigeria is working under the leadership of Mr. President Tinubu to chart a sustainable course for our total emancipation she said.

Speaking further, the minister highlited importance of sport to our development in the country, "Sport is one.of the sector that cuts across all sectors and stand as the most effective unifier of various aspects of life and livelihood. it endengers economic growth, contribute to health and healthy living and silently but efficiently tackles unrest and all form of crimes as well as criminal intentions".

According to him, sports guarantee peace, even in times of disagreement as opposing forces will always sits peacefully to watch competition between contender of their choice.

Speaking on technology as it relate to sports the minister said, " in the world progress is very difficult if not impossible without technology, we are witnesses to the speed at which technology is advancing every facet of human being. The technology Giants of our time have consistent embarked on trainings to  empower our youth in various endeavors", the minister said .

'As you have gathered here to articulate ways of achieving the mandate for today's  gathering I wish you successful deliberation, we shall be waiting for your communique and recommendations' the minister concluded.

Four young players picked, as OB 12 Global wins 36 Lion Cup in Ibadan

It was a reward for hard work for four (4) talented youngsters who made the final cut, as OB 12 Global Football Academy were crowned champions of the 36 Lion Cup in Ibadan at the weekend.

OB 12 Global were unbeaten in the 4-Team football Tourney held at the University of Ibadan Pitch and Awo Stadium, as they defeated Pacers Football Academy on Matchday One and needed the lotteries of penalty to edge Jay Oxlade 2-1 after the full time result was  1-1.

36 Lion Investment, Demmysport Agency and Wabzeem Sports put together the Lions Southwest Cup -Fantastic Four, which had eventual champions OB 12 Global Football Academy, Jay Oxlade Football Academy, Pacers Football Academy and RFO Football Academy.

Hajj Olawale Liameed Gafar, President of 36 Lion Investment said at the epic final: "The players selected,  Adebayo Solomon, Muftau Mubaarak, Shobiye Opeyemi and Mojeed Musa will be in Lagos and pass through a development programme and maybe a year, two or three hit the foreign market, all that depends on the growth of such players.

"A few will just spend six months with us before we transfer them. The players will be divided into three (3) grades of A, B and C. Among the players that were selected from the last edition, only one survived, because our football is not easy to play.

"Our coaching style is 'Go Army.Com'. If you can't be a soldier, you cannot play football. No matter how good your coach is, you must be able to be a warrior for you to play the game. One of the slogans of AS Roma of Italy, says 'Win or Die', while mine is 'If you're not willing to die for a job, you can't survive that job'. 

"Sesan Ayodele, was the player that made it and he is now in the UK, fully sponsored by this programme (36 Lion, OB 12 Global, Demmysport Agency and  Wabzeem Sports. 

"On our way to Ibadan, the youngster was invited to West Ham United to showcase his talent and the 15-year-old dazzled as he was the best player. He is also in the UK schooling and playing football, we believe he will end up becoming a top rated player in the UK when he's 18-years-old."

Speaking further, the Vice Chairman Lagos State Football Association (Lagos FA) gave a punchline, after he noted a drop in the quality of the main actors of football.

"Immediately after the programme, Coach Gullit and I have selected a player that can start making an impact in the Nigerian Premier Football League  (NPFL), from here he has earned an invite to Shooting Stars of Ibadan courtesy of the Oluyole Warriors Team Manager Dimeji Lawal.

"The quality of play all over the world is dropping, same goes with players as they think more of money than playing and I don't fault the trend looking at the different challenges. But I want to implore you as young players to keep working hard, and trust me when it rains, money will rain you up.

"Football is capital intensive, as it requires lots of funds, that's why critics think we waste money on football but we have the belief that we will recoup our investment with huge profits at the end of the day.

"OB 12 Global and Jay Oxlade, Pacers and RFO, ideally should be funded with a minimum of Five Million Naira (N5,000, 000) each per season by their Local Government, but we find ourselves in an unfortunate situation. We are doing a wonderful job in a very challenging platform, the platform is Nigeria and everyone will survive Nigeria.

"When I say we will survive Nigeria; the country will be here but we'll do good and revive our nation, because Nigeria needs a revival, and it's you all that will do it.

"When I said the quality of players dropping, normally I am supposed to select two young talents from the teams but I can only pick three players from the team that finished fourth. It's interesting as despite finishing 4th, we saw three best talents in the team.

"We'll invite the three of them to Lagos, the coach of the team has done a good job nurturing his lads, they fought a gallant fight in the tourney, while the players selected are rewarded for his hard work."