Semi finalists emerge in 2023 Lagos Supremacy Cup

 

36 Lion picked their third win of the Lagos Supremacy Cup on Thursday morning as they conquered SGFC Athletics 2-1, while Dino SC beat Broad City 3-1 to join Lion in the semi-final.

Imperial had a taste of victory, beating Dosu Joseph Football Club 4-0 in the early kick-off.

23 goals was scored in Day 3 of the Lagos Supremacy Cup. Below is how events unfolded at the Campus Mini Stadium......

Three-star Agada marvellous for Mavlon 

In-form Charles Agada was ruthless with three goals for Mavlon who humbled Corinthians 3-1.

Jacob Emmanuel banged the only goal for Corinthians.

With the result, Mavlon picked their spot in the semi-final with six points from three games. They placed second with goal difference of +2.

Elsewhere, Imperial annihilated Dosu Joseph Football Club 4-0 while FC Bethel drew 2-2 against DN10.

City fall short 

Despite a brace from Oyedokun Tosin, Ikorodu City drew 2-2 with Tripple 44 and crashed out of the tournament.

Adewale Adekunle and Oladeji Israel found the back of net for Tripple 44.

Both teams finished with five points but Tripple 44 qualified for the semi-final thanks to a superior goal difference of +2. 

City had +1 and couldn't pick the spot for best second placed team as they were edged out by Mavlon.

Dino SC join the semi-final train

Dino SC condemned Broad City to a 3-1 defeat. An early goal from Stephen Ende and Ogonna Okoro's brace disorganized Broad City.

Oladele Razaq scored a face saving goal for Broad City who weren't at their fluid best.

In Thursday's last game, 36 Lion beat SGFC Athletics 2-1 to finish the pool on top with nine points.

Azuka Alanta and Seun Lawal registered 36 Lion's goals. Adeshina Akande was the goalscorer for SGFC Athletics.

What next 

Tripple 44, Dino SC, Mavlon and 36 Lion are through to the semi-final.

Day Four Fixtures 

Date: Friday 17th November, 2023

Venue: Legacy Pitch, National Stadium, Surulere.

Tripple 44 Vs Mavlon 7am

Dino SC Vs 36 Lion 8:10am

Final 8:40am

Lagos Supremacy Cup: Imperial, Triple 44 share spoils in four goal thriller as 36 Lion, Mavlon, Broad City record wins on Day One

 

Tripple 44 started the Lagos Supremacy Cup with a 2-2 draw against Imperial at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan on Tuesday.

There were victories for Mavlon, Broad City and 36 Lion as the competition got under way in front of enthusiastic fans, who were treated to plenty of action on day one.

Joel Ashuku bagged a brace for Imperial in the thriller against the Ibadan based outfit. Rahmon Olawale and Ifeoluwa Adewale netted in the colours of Tripple 44.

Dosu Joseph Football Club forced Ikorodu City to a 1-1 draw.

The game didn't open up until the last 10 minutes. Olowu Seun cancelled out Al Ameen's curtain raiser.

Mavlon had too much quality for Dino SC, as they won 2-1.

Charles Agada showcased his quality with the first blood. Hassan Agbede equalised for Dino.

Imrana Mohammed hit Dino SC with a late heartbreaker.

Broad City beat Corinthians 2-1 in the fourth match of the day.

Isa Muhammed played the poacher role superbly as he helped 36 Lion pip FC Bethel 1-0.

Meanwhile, DN10 played out a 1-1 against SGFC Athletics.

Action continues at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Wednesday with six games taking place.

Day 1 Results

Tripple 44 2-2 Imperial 

Ikorodu City 1-1 Dosu Joseph Football Club 

Mavlon 2-1 Dino SC 

Corinthians  1-2 Broad City 

FC Bethel 0-1 36 Lion 

DN10 1-1 SGFC Athletics

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!

Naija Super 8: Hon. Asuquo boosts Akwa United after win over Yobe Desert Stars

 

Hon Uwemedimo Asuquo has praised Akwa United for starting their Naija Super 8 campaign on a winning note.

The Promise Keepers edged Yobe Desert Stars 2-1 in their opening game in Group B at Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Saturday.

And Hon Asuquo, Chairman House Committee on youths and sport in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly commended the club for the achievement, noting that success came through hard work and effort.

He also declared the sum of Fifty Thousand Naira (N50,000) for every goal scored from their next game at the tournament.

"I am very pleased to congratulate Akwa United for their first win of the Naija Super 8," he mused during a chat with Newsmen on Saturday.

“This is, without a doubt, the result of effort and hard work and all involved can be proud of this great achievement. I would be grateful if you continue to keep the fire burning.

"I encourage team to continue working with determination and motivation.

"I hereby declare the sum of Fifty Thousand Naira (N50,000) for every goal scored from the next game of the team at Super 8. This is a way of encouraging them to keep making Akwa Ibom proud," he concluded.

NLO Boss, Alkali reveals reasons for NLO/Berackiah Coaching Clinic

Chairman Nationwide League One, Mohammed Alkali has stressed that capacity building of coaches in the nation's third-tier league is the essence of the NLO/Berackiah Grassroot Football Coaching Clinic.

The second edition of the Coaching Clinic kicked off on February 15 at five (5) centres Lagos, Otukpo, Birini Kebbi, Akwa and Uyo.

In his address delivered by his representatives at the five centers to all participating coaches, a delighted Akali said: "We are very proud to have partnered with Nigeria Football Coaches Association and Berackiah on this coaching clinic. The clinic is good for Nigerian football. The NLO as a body is very committed to improving the league and as such will go the extra mile to ensuring capacity-building events like this holds regularly with support from the Technical Department of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) .

"The coaching clinic will be on technical football session to facilitate knowledge for our local coaches and to develop the quality of the Nationwide League One. We are confident that this will significantly improve the technical expertise of our local coaches.

"The clinic will equip our coaches with the tactical knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the game. I’m proud to say that the course content is very rich and encompassing and the resource persons are top-notch Nigeria's best football instructors.

"Youth development is the future of football. We are committed to developing capacity at the grassroots level, with the Coaching Clinic, we’ll get the desired results. 

"We will continue to collaborate with our partners, in ways to develop our football and our league,"

The five-day clinic is expected to end on Saturday February 19th.

Akinyoola, Egbeyemi, Taiwo light up Lions Affairs Football Carnival

 

Caracas striker Samson Akinyoola walked away with another major award at the Weekend, the latest prize to put on his mantle.

The Benin Republic international headlined a big day at Legacy Pitch, winning the Diaspora Lion of the year 2021 at Lions Affairs Football Carnival. 

The novelty match between the Diaspora Lions and the home base Lions of 36 Lion Football Club ended 5-5 to the delight of their teeming Lagos fans. 

Akinyoola who scored 20 goals in all competitions for Caracas in 2021, said he continues to be humbled by every accolade he's received.

“It feels good. It’s an honor just to be here,” Akinyoola said. “I’m just glad to come back to this great club that made me.”

“It’s great. It feels like I was being honored as an athlete,” he said. “That’s supposed to be the mission, so it felt great.”

Akinyoola emerged as top scorer of the 2021 Venezuelan Primera División with 18 goals from 34 games. He was named in the team of the season alongside three other Caracas' players.

U-16 starlets Abidemi Egbeyemi and Michael Taiwo went home with #20,000 each after winning the Lions Ball Juggler of the year and the Lions Accurate Kicker of the year awards respectively. 

“Super surprised,” Egbeyemi said. “I don’t think I’m the best player out of those other guys. But I can’t thank the management of 36 Lion enough. It’s an honor.”

“I’m just going to enjoy the moment and live in the moment,” he said.

“Just to see all that hard work I put into football, it’s paying off today,” Taiwo said. “But at the same time there’s a lot of talented guys here, so I’m just honored to be able to take a turn.”

Speaking after the event, 36 Lion Proprietor Gafar Liameed expressed joy that the friendly match was organized to foster unity, friendliness, and love among the players within and outside the country. He particularly commended the home-based players for their loyalty, dedication, and commitment to the club activities in the outgoing year saying that the year 2022 would be better and glamorous.

“The friendly match was organized as a way of showing love to our local and foreign players for their commitment and dedication to the club in the last few years. I am happy that the turnout was impressive and the players entertained their fans with football artistry.

“We recorded so many achievements in the area of player’s transfer and reaching the round of 16 at the just concluded Lagos FA Cup in the outgoing year. We are looking forward to achieving better in New Year and we are using this medium to announce that our two players would sign for foreign clubs in the coming year,” he said.

Prominent players that 36 Lion has produced over the years are Junior Ajayi, Imoh Ezekiel, Peter Olayinka, Sodiq Popo, Yira Sor and Muhammed Tijani.

SportsFlames Man of the Year Award will spur me to do more, says DIG Moses Jitoboh

 

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of South-East and South-South, Moses Jitoboh has received the Command Secondary School and SportsFlames Sports Man Of The Year Award.

Jitoboh a member of the 1987 Set received the award on Saturday in Lagos after his secondary school classmates defeated the 1984 Set (their seniors) 3-0 in a novelty football match played at the Legacy Pitch of the National Stadium in Surulere Lagos.

According to DIG Jitoboh after receiving the Award at the Legacy Pitch inside National Stadium Surulere, he expressed joy and excitement.

In his words," I'm delighted and honoured to have received this award. The only way I can show my appreciation to the organizers of this award is to do more for sports with which I have a passion.

" Anything that is done for the promotion of sports is never small. We plan to upgrade the Command Secondary School football pitch. We are working on it and at the right time, works should commence on it."

The DIG thinks that the youths can use the Police Force as a platform to achieve their dreams in Sports.

" Recall I was a former national basketball player,  I slammed and dunked at the highest level in Nigeria as I was the captain of the Police Team. Sports drives me and not just me but my family. My two kids are in the United States playing basketball. 

" I was also formerly in charge of Police Sports, if you look at the different sports in Nigeria, you will find an athlete (male or female) who is in the force and have gone ahead to win laurels for the country.

As regards the 1987 Set, who have gone four novelty matches unbeaten, "One unique thing about the 1987 Set is the camaraderie amongst ourselves and sure a few present for the novelty match have come from far as Europe and America. I flew into Lagos from Abuja and others from Port-Harcourt not just for the game but to see ourselves.

" The meeting is not just about sports, which of course is the unifying factor, life and helping ourselves to greatness."

Captain of the winning 1987 Set, Femi Barry after the game said: "Our team was and still the only side that has played in the quarter-final round of the Lagos Principals Cup, losing to MBHS at the Onikan Stadium (now Mobolaji Johnson Arena).

" The previous novelty matches we have played were against our juniors, while this is first against our seniors. We were too fit for them, Dele Awoshika, Eniola and I scored. In the second half, we were just doing the passing. I think we have to pause our play as any set that wants to play against the 87 Set must go four games unbeaten before they think of challenging us, as we are true champions.

Reacting to the 3-0 defeat, David who led the 84 Set teams out said, "I knew we will lose as when I saw them, the 87 Set team looked fit unlike us. Some of us were meeting ourselves again for over 30 or 35 years. The novelty game was fun, I used to be the captain of the school football team, did not pursue a career in football as I chose to do God's work." 

Also, Managing Partner  Sportflames Communications and Football Events Consultant to Command Secondary School Ipaja, 

Olawale Olatoye said: " It's a well-deserving award to DIG Moses Jitoboh who has contributed to sports in Nigeria as a former boss of Police Sports.

" Sportflames objectives is to always encourage and support exceptional personalities, put smiles on faces by contributing to sports Development, we love giving back to the industry by appreciating and embracing hard work with massive efforts, not in competition with anyone, just doing what we love to do."

Ministry of Works, Housing ejects unauthorized developers from Lagos National Stadium Complex, concludes verification exercise

 

The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing has ejected some unauthorized developers putting up building projects on some parts of the land acquired by the Federal Government for the construction of the National Stadium Complex in Surulere, Lagos.

The Ministry has also closed down the construction sites of these developers and sealed off their operations.

Making this known in his office in Abuja, during the presentation of the 'Report On Field Verification Exercise/Acquisition Of National Stadium Complex, Surulere, Lagos' on Tuesday, the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola said these decisions became necessary to protect Government land and assets.

His words: "The Ministry of Works and Housing is the custodian of Government land and assets and so when we were briefed about the encroachment on part of the land acquired by the Federal Government for the construction of the National Stadium in Lagos many years ago, in 1960 and 1973, we had to follow it up.

"The Ministry put together a very strong team to investigate the matter immediately and thoroughly. I also visited the sites personally to have first hand knowledge and see things for myself.

"Once our investigative team was able to establish the facts about Government ownership of the land and that those developers were unauthorized, we invited the Lagos Police Command to close down their  construction sites and seal off their operations. All these were done on behalf of the Ministry of Sports because this land falls directly under your jurisdiction."

Before clamping down on the builders and developers, surveyors and land experts in the Ministry of Works and Housing also went through many official documents and gazettes to ascertain the scale of the acquisition of the land by Government in 1960 and 1973.

Mrs Angela Great-Edereka, the Director of Lands, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, confirmed that official documents show the land was legally acquired by Government in 1960 and 1973.

In his remarks, the Sports Minister Sunday Dare thanked his counterpart in the Works and Housing Ministry for the professional handling of the matter.

Dare then called for collaboration on the best way to put the recovered land to use.

 "We will continue to seek your professional inputs and guidance on how best to use this land to prevent illegal occupants and unauthorized persons from taking them over," Dare concluded.

Akwa United strongman Gbadebo revels in NPFL All-Stars call-up

 

Akwa United central defender, Samson Gbadebo has expressed delight following his call up to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) All-Stars squad that will play the Budweiser Game of Kings which features Spanish La Liga great, Roberto Carlos as well as EPL icon, John Terry.

Gbadebo who has been on top form for the Uyo based side is part of the players invited for the event. 

"I think it was an honour in the first place to be given the platform ahead of several other players in Nigeria," he told the Media.

"What it means is that my work is being assessed and I have to keep the same mental psyche going forward since there are several other defenders there yearning for such platform.

"Hopefully this is the beginning of more things in the pipeline for me. So grateful for the invite and will surely not look back after this.

The former Rivers United man is very happy with the chance offered him by the technical crew of the NPFL All-Stars.

He has been in a different mood ever since the invitation reached his club and he was notified.

Obviously, he will be an instant hit with the NPFL All-Stars since he knows how to work under pressure. He is aware of the situation at stake and will rise to the occasion when given the chance.

The Budweiser Game Of Kings comes up in Lagos at the Teslim Balogun Stadium from 18th-21st November 2021.

Ottasolo Preseason Tourney: Ajagbe inspires Sunshine Stars to outsmart Smart City on Day One

 

Substitute Azeez Ajagbe netted a late goal as Sunshine Stars defeated Smart City 1-0, while 36 Lion and Ottasolo FC drew 0-0 on the opening day of the 2021 Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament at Legacy Pitch on Monday.

Sunshine Stars have a much-changed squad for the tournament but managed to seal a narrow victory in a game of few chances in Group B.

Hadi Mohammed criminally missed a begging opportunity for Stars late in the first stanza.

Smart City also threatened, but it was Owena Whales who took the lead few minutes from time.

Ajagbe managed to get his strike beyond the Smart City keeper in the 85th minute.

Meanwhile, Ottasolo FC and 36 Lion played out a 0-0 draw earlier in the day.

Ottasolo were reduced to 10 men when Hammed Egbedeyi received a deserved red card.

But 36 Lion didn't make their numerical supremacy count as both sides shared the spoils. 

Action continues on Tuesday when the first games in Group B are played.

Lobi Stars are up against Yobo FC in the first clash (9am) and both sides will be eager to make a winning start in what could be a tight group.

The second game will see in-form Remo Stars face MFM FC at 3pm. 

The top two teams in each of the groups advance to the semifinals.

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.

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.

Referee boss gives blessing to Ottasolo Pre-season tourney

 

Organisers of Ottasolo Pre-season tournament continue to give more details ahead of the competition after announcing the commitment of the Lagos State arm of the Nigeria Referee Association.

According to the coordinator, Bashir Badawiy, the referees already assured of their support and availability for the seven-day championships scheduled for the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, from November 1 to 7.

“I received assurance from the president of the NRA, Otunba Tade Azeez, that referees in the state would be available for the competition,” he said.

“This is a big boost for the pre-season as we count down to the first day of the tournament, and that is Monday, November 1.

“We already have assurance from the clubs that they will be in Lagos for the championship and I want to reiterate the fact that we are almost ready.

“I want to use this opportunity to thank the chairman of Ottasolo International FC, Gabriel Davies, for putting his weight behind the pre-season tournament and I am sure it is going to be a success.”

The pre-season tournament is scheduled to take place from November 1 to 7 at the newly refurbished Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

"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."

Badawiy: Ottasolo Preseason Tourney will be best in Nigeria

The Coordinator of the Organizing Committee of the 2021 Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament, Mallam Badawiy Bashir has asserted that the objective is to ensure that the tournament becomes the best pre-season competition in Nigeria.

The competition has been scheduled to take place from November 1 to 7 in Lagos. 

Badawiy who is also the General Manager of Kwara United confirmed that 10 teams will take part in its maiden edition.

The Organizing Committee Coordinator noted that the objective is to make the Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament the best in Nigeria. 

He stated that aside the pre season matches that will keep the participating teams busy and for them to gauge their preparations for the commencement of the league season, the first edition of the Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament will have some side attraction. 

"I am delighted to inform you that 10 teams have shown interest to attend the maiden edition of the Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament," Badawiy informed the Media. 

"We would be welcoming teams from majorly Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

"Sunshine Stars, Niger Tornadoes, MFM FC, Kwara United, Lobi Stars, Abia Warriors, Gombe United among others have agreed to take part.

"It is our dream to have Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament rated as the best pre-season competition in Nigeria and so many activities have been put in place to make it a prestigious event. There will be side attractions.

"On our part we are delighted that the competition will kickoff on 1st November in Lagos and it will help the teams to draw up their SWOT analysis before the season commences," he concluded.

The Ottasolo Pre Season Tournament is bankrolled by Mr Gabriel Davies.

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.

"Playing for Caracas is a great, exciting experience" - 36 Lion product Akinyoola reacts after netting double against Monagas

 

36 Lion product Samson Akinyoola has expressed delight that two of his goals propelled Caracas to a 3-1 victory over Monagas at the Estadio Monumental de Maturín (Maturín) on Saturday morning.

He has now scored 12 goals in the Venezuela Primera División this term.

Akinyoola was thrilled that he had "made everyone in the team happy" and praised the teamwork which led to his brace.

The two-goal hero said: "I am overjoyed with the win. Caracas are a great club and winning is natural for them, so it was a bit out of the ordinary for us not to defeat Monagas in front of their fans.

"I am especially pleased for the fantastic fans who have supported us at home and away this season. Playing for Caracas is a great and exciting experience, and I am lucky to play in such a team where everyone is ready to provide all the necessary facilities for the players to excel."

"We believed in our capabilities and winning against Monagas was deserved for to all our hard work."

"This is Caracas' season. We have dominated the competition from the start and won't rest until we win the title."

Caracas are on top of the table with 48 points from 23 games.

Monimichelle, TMR join forces with ANFASSC ahead of friendly against SWAN Selected

Monimichelle Sports Construction and Track Med Rec (TMR) have joined the growing list of Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC) partners for the epic game against SWAN Selected.

The two sides will clash at Legacy Pitch on Tuesday. Kickoff is 1pm.

To make the cracker well organized, the highly regarded companies have decided to support ANFASSC who are chief hosts of the game.

Speaking to the Media on the lastest development, National President ANFASSC, Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi thanked the two companies for recognizing the Authentic brand.

He urged other well meaning individuals and cooperate bodies to continue identifying with ANFASSC.

The match between ANFASSC and SWAN Selected will take place at Legacy Pitch on Tuesday 5th October.

The friendly is also sponsored by NFF, Bet9ja, Culturati, Aurara Football Limited, ACTDF and Cone.

22 players in camp as ANFASSC begin training in Lagos ahead of SWAN Selected friendly

Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club held their first training session Sunday afternoon ahead of the friendly against SWAN Selected on October 5 in Lagos.

The ANFASSC players arrived the Lagos camp on Saturday ahead of the game.

Our source monitoring the activities of the players in camp reported that the first training session was held on Sunday.

22 players trained at Legacy Pitch, venue of the highly publicised match.

“Everything is going on well, the guys are well prepared and ready to give out their best,” Prince Ogunjimi told the Media.

“What I’m seeing here is massive, everybody is doing great. I think what I saw was different. They (player) trained hard and it motivated me.

“The players just need to be confident without any fear and from what I’ve seen, they are very confident and well-motivated.

The match will take place at the Legacy Pitch on Tuesday afternoon. Kickoff is 1pm.