Kutigi Stadium to host maiden Bala Mohammed/Lavun Govt tourney on Saturday

 

The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the maiden Coach Abubakar Bala Mohammed (TA) Niger Tornadoes Pre-season Lavun Local Govt Talent Hunt Football Competition, has released the groupings and fixtures for the tourney.

The tourney named after awarding winning and result-oriented Bala Mohammed, Technical Adviser Nigeria Premier Football League side Niger Tornadoes, will kick off on Saturday at the Late Mahmud Bawa Memorial Stadium Kutigi.

In draws conducted by the LOC of the Pre-season Talent Hunt Football tourney, informed that eight teams will lock horns in the event.

The teams for the tourney, all based in Kutigi have adopted the names of some Nigeria Premier Football League clubs, as have Niger Tornadoes, Enyimba, Rivers United, Shooting Stars, Pillars, Lobi Stars, Rangers, and Wikki Tourists.

Group A, is made up of Niger Tornadoes, Enyimba, Rivers United, and Wikki Tourists, while Shooting Stars, Pillars FC, Lobi Stars, and Rangers FC make up Group B.

According to the fixtures, the opening game of the tournament is a Group A fixture between Niger Tornadoes versus Enyimba by 3:30 pm.

There will be a single fixture on every Matchday, up till Wednesday 25th, May, while the top two teams in the groups will make it to the semi-final.

The LOC, who has made logistic arrangements, have fixed the semi-final matches for Friday 26th and 27th May, while the 3rd place final will be staged 48 hours later.

The date of the final, the LOC states will be communicated to the two finalists, as all are in top gear to ensure a hitch-free tournament in Kitugi.

Tornadoes Get Governor Bello's #1Million Largesse For Win Against Dakkada

 

It was ecstasy in the camp of Niger Tornadoes after the club Chairman Honourable Adamu Aliyu who doubles as the Principal Private Secretary to Nigeria State Governor, Abubakar Sani Bello, redeemed the One Million naira pledge made by His Excellency to the team for beating Dakkada.

Recall, the Ikon Allah Boys eased past stubborn Dakkada via a David Okoromi strike in a Matchday 9 fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League played at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna.  

After three consecutive draws in their adopted home ground, the needed 3 points spurred Tornadoes on, as they finished the first half of the season 5th on the Group B log with 12 points, and kept their hunt for a Super 6 play-off ticket alive.

Coach Bala Abubakar who shared the news with the media, thanked Governor Abubakar Sani Bello for his kind gesture and commitment towards the club.

"I feel we should show appreciation to our Governor for doing well this time as regards motivation, which has been lacking for a long time.

"For us, this is the tonic needed to galvanise the team going forward as it has been a tough first stanza, as its never easy playing home matches away from home.

"Despite the hurdles, we are still on track to finish the season on a high. Not forgetting our amiable Chairman, Honourable Aliyu, credit to him for his hard work and support towards the team." 

Meanwhile, as weeks turn into days to the season's second-half kick-off, Bala has assured fans and critics to watch out for a better Tornadoes. 

"We have used the election break to drill and reinforced the team with quality legs as we are working tirelessly on the team's weak areas we had identified in the first round.

" I don't want to make any promises but I want to assure everyone that Tornadoes will get it right in the second stanza of the season."

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.

Remo Stars donate, Wheelchair, cash gift to die hard fan

It's a day not to forget in a hurry for Ilorin based die-hard fan of Remo Stars, Inuoluwa Heritage after he was given a new wheelchair and cash by management of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) team.

Heritage, a person living with disabilities is a passionate follower of the domestic league and travelled to Ikenne to support the Sky Blues Stars.

Presenting the gift to Inuoluwa at half time of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup semi-final game between Tornadoes and Remo Stars, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Sky Blues Stars Ogungbefun Lukmon said it was a way to reward his passion.

"The gesture is just to show our appreciation to him (Inuolawa) who has been a supporter Remo Stars. I also learnt that he is based in Ilorin, so the wheelchair will help ease his movement 

"I wouldn't want to disclose the value of the cash that was given to him, the token is just to take care of his accommodation and feeding here in Ikenne."

A delightful Inuoluwa thanked the club President, Kunle Soname for his kind gesture as prayed that in the near future, the club will win the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) and make its debut in the CAF Champions League.

"I want to say a big thank you to Soname and everyone in Remo Stars. When the President(Soname) saw me supporting the Sky Blues Stars in one of the matches at the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, I sent someone to call me and after meeting with him, he told me he liked my passion for football and he has a gift for me.

"I never expected that it would a wheelchair to help ease my movement and cash to pay for my accommodation as I came from Ilorin to support Remo Stars."

Meanwhile, the Sky Blues Stars come from behind to beat Tornadoes 2-1 to advance to the finals of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup.

Remo Stars break seven year jinx, secure Ogunjobi Gold Cup final slot

Remo Stars broke their seven years jinx in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup in style as they are through to their first finals after they defeated Niger Tornadoes in one of the semi-final games of the pre-season tournament at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

It was an action packed encounter that saw two super strikes from free-kicks as the Sky Blues Stars coming behind to win the game 2-1 at half-time.

Tornadoes, a former champion of the tournament drew first blood as they took the lead in the 8th minute.

Goalkeeper Kayode Bankole of Remo Stars was left helpless after Abubakar Ansaru scored from a sublime free-kick at the edge of  the box to increase his goal tally in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup to two.

Six minutes later, the Sky Blues Stars brought even the scoreline after captain fantastic 

Nduka Junior scored a beauty from a set-piece. It was Nduka's second goal from free-kick as he scored in same fashion against MFM FC.

 In the 23rd minute, Tornadoes had goalkeeper George Michael to thank after he forced off a save from Dayo Ojo's rocket from 25yards to keep the score at 1-1.

Tornadoes were then punished for their sloppy defending in the 38th minute and gifted Tolu Ojo his second goal in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup.

The attacking midfielder quickly made the most of the error to shoot into the net Remo Stars second goal. 

Coach Gbenga Ogunbote who won the Ogunjobi Gold Cup with Sharks FC of Port-Harcourt will be hoping to lead Remo Stars to their first triumph in the tournament as they could go head-to-head with either of Shooting Stars or MFM FC in the final billed for Saturday at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.

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 Gold Cup: Ogunbote speaks on Remo Stars' plans ahead of Tornadoes clash

 

After defeating FC Yobo to qualify for Thursday's semi-finals, Gbenga Ogunbote says his Remo Stars will be at it's best against Niger Tornadoes.

The 'Oracle' of NPFL in his post-match media chat said, "For me, the semi-final game against Tornadoes is like the other games we have played as we are still building a team.

" The tourney has been of help to the team as things are taking shape gradually. Mistakes are bound to be made during matches and in between, we are equally training with a view of correcting blunders made by the players.

"The target of every coach in a pre-season tourney is to win matches and know the depth of his team. We know little about Tornadoes having defeated them a few weeks ago. 

"It's a game we want to win and also play in the finals of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, so we should do our best just as we have done in the previous 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, Freestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Academy and ITS Football Management.

Tornadoes new import, Ashadi eyes Ogunjobi Gold Cup title

 

One of the poster boys of the Nigerian Professional Football League(NPFL) Destiny Ashadi has vowed to rediscover his good form and win the Ogunjobi Gold Cup with Niger Tornadoes.

Ashadi, 26, no doubt is one of the most gifted attacking midfielders in the domestic league, as he is a delight to watch on the pitch owing to his dazzling skills and leadership qualities too.

The CHAN Eagle star who was among the squad that lost 3-2 to Spanish LaLiga heavyweight Atletico Madrid in a friendly at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in 2018, has had a fair share of injury of late, which slowed his game and made him not to hit form at Rivers United last season.

Now with the Ikon Allah Boys, at the Ogunjobi Gold Cup a delightful Ashadi said: "Glad to be with Tornadoes playing and gradually am finding back my form with the matches I have played in this tourney.

"I left Rivers United by mutual consent, not for any other thing, injury slowed me down at Rivers United. When I recovered I was not convinced with the play time I was getting, so I had a private meeting with Coach Stanley Eguma and he agreed that I can get my release papers and go to a team where I would much playing time.

"Am having a splendid time with Tornadoes, the atmosphere at the club is good as we are a family and have mutual respect for one another."

"My partnership with Daniel Edeh in the  midfield has been good as we have a better understanding of ourselves as we speak same dialect, so communication has been the key to our impressive play.

"It's going to be a different ball at the semi-finals as we will approach the game against Remo Stars with the zeal to win. We won't be complacent."

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.

Ogunjobi Gold Cup: Bala expects fireworks as Tornadoes plan to dim Remo Stars in Ikenne

Niger Tornadoes and Remo Stars will rekindle their healthy rivalry when they go head-to-head in the first semi-final match of the 9th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup on Thursday at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

Recall when both teams locked horns at the last edition of Nigeria's prestigious pre-season tourney in Ilorin, Tornadoes who were defending champions crashed out after failing to qualify to the semi-finals following a 2-2 draw with Remo Stars.

The Ikon Allah Boys needed to beat the Sky Blue Stars convincingly by 3-0, but it was not to be as they twice came from behind to share the spoils.

Bala, whose objective is to steer the Ikon Allah Boys to a second Ogunjobi Gold Cup title win and see that his squad improve in all departments as the 20 NPFL teams countdown to the new season commencement, hinted that Thursday will be another good time to tackle the Sky Blues Stars.

"It is going to be a tough game against Remo Stars as we have a healthy rivalry against them in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup," said Bala after Tornadoes trounce FC Ebedei 3-1.

"I expect a lot of fireworks in the match as both teams recently got promoted to the NPFL.

"My lads will be seeking a redemption against them having lost to them some weeks ago, irrespective of that, I have much confidence my players will come out strong despite the fact that the encounter is been played at their backyard and in front of their fans."

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.

Shamsudeen inspires Tornadoes to secure Ogunjobi Gold Cup semifinal spot

 

Never say die spirit of Shamsudeen Hashim was the inspiration Niger Tornadoes needed as they advanced to the semifinals of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup after they saw off FC Ebedie 3-1 in their Group B game.

The game at the FC Ebedei Stadium was won within 17 minutes of the first half and the experience and work rate of the Ikon Allah Boys played a key role as they bounced off from the defeat to Shooting Stars to secure their second three points in the pre-season tournament.

FC Ebedei took the fight to the NPFL side, and in the 12th minute, they shocked Tornadoes scoring the first goal of the game through Isa Musa.

The lanky striker pounced on a loose ball from Tornadoes sloppy defending to tap into the net for the Oliseh Boys.

In the 16th minute, Wakilu Abudulahi thought he had drawn even for Tornadoes with a half volley from Nojeem Olayinka's cross inside the FC Ebedei box, only for the match official to rule his goal out as off-side.

Four minutes later, Shamsudeen Hashim powered past FC Ebedei's the backline to make it 1-1 with his ferocious low drive shot that found the bottom right corner of Mark Ugboh's goal.

Martins Usule then doubled the lead for Tornadoes 13 minutes later scoring via a clinical assist from Hasim.

FC Ebedei were then punished for not defending well in their box as Ahmadu Liman put the game beyond their reach scoring Tornadoes third goal in the 37th minute.

The second half was more or less as child's play for Tornadoes as they took the 45 minutes to school players of FC Ebedei.

Tornadoes could meet any of MFM FC, Remo Stars or FC Yobo in a semi-final game billed for Thursday at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

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.

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

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.

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.

Ogunjobi Gold Cup: Bala admits Beyond Limits push Tornadoes to the edge

 

Abubakar Bala has acknowledged that Beyond Limits are a good team as it was a tough duel against the rookies who gave his stars a good game.

Tornadoes recorded their first 3points in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup pre-season tournament courtesy of two second-half goals from the strike duo of Igbudu Alpha and Usule Martins at the FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu.

"I never expected that these young lads would be as enterprising as they were today, they matched my team as they were technical and physically good," Bala said.

"I must be sincere, during the game, I asked myself this question, do we still have this kind of football talent in Nigeria. 

"After that, my thought was what some coaches present as products of our youth national teams is a sharp contrast to the talents I have seen here.

"However, Beyond Limits might have pushed us to our limits as it took us team 52 minutes to score our first goal, that does not take away anything from my players as their experience and coordination in the game got the three points.

"We hope to build on the win as the target is not just to win the Ogunjobi Gold Cup but to have a formidable team that can compete well in the NPFL when the season kicks off.

"After the NNL Play-off, we went on a short break during which we took the time to assemble a few quality players. So we are using the Ogunjobi Gold Cup to put the squad to shape on the task ahead in the NPFL."

Tornadoes will on Saturday go head-to-head with Shooting Stars in one of the high profile games of the prestigious pre-season tourney in Nigeria.

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.

Niger Tornadoes move past Beyond Limits in Ogunjobi Gold Cup Opener

Newly promoted Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Niger Tornadoes kept their quest for a second Ogunjobi Gold Cup title alive as they beat Beyond Limits by two second half goals in their opening Matchday One game of the pre-season tourney.

The game at the FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu lived up to its hype as it got fans spellbound from the ref's blast to the final whistle.

The Ikon Allah were pushed to their limits as it took them 52 minutes before they could break the resilience of Beyond Limits energetic defence line. 

In the opening quarter of an hour, Tornadoes should have easily been one goal up but Beyond Limits had Olisa Emmanuel to thank owing to his sharp reflex save.

The goalkeeper was at his best as he forced off a superb save from Abubakar Babaji's sublime free-kick from 25yards.

In the 49th minute, Emmanuel showed why he is the first choice shot-stopper as he denied the Ikon Allah what could have been their first goal as he pulled off another save.

Beyond Limits could have shocked Tornadoes with their fantastic counter-attacking play from young lads, but a rocket shot by Muyideen Olude from 25yards beat goalkeeper Yinka Daniel but only to rattle the woodwork.

The young lads then paid dearly for a schoolboy defending in the 52nd minutes as Igbudu Alpha of Tornadoes became the first player to open a goal account in the 9th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup.

As Tornadoes defended their one goal lead up till the 90th minute, Usule Martins then put the icing on the cake for his team scoring a second.

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.

#DapoAbiodunCup21 Day 5 Wrap: Sunshine Stars seal semifinal spot as Niger Tornadoes bow out in 5-goal thriller

 

Sunshine Stars booked the final spot of the Semifinals after playing out a 1-1 against MFM FC on Matchday five of the Dapo Abiodun preseason tournament. 

The Olukoya boys went ahead in the 60th minute after substitute, Ojo Quadri put the ball past Mustapha Lawal in goal with a well taken shot inside the area. 

Sunshine Stars restored parity with their counter attack, and Olasupo Samson took the final pass to slot the ball home and made it his third goal of the tournament. 

In a dead-rubber game, Niger Tornadoes beat Ottasolo 3-2 to get their only win of the tournament. 

It was an interesting first half as both teams wanted to leave the tournament with pride despite not having a chance to advance to the next round. 

Ahmadu Liman opened scoring for Niger Tornadoes with a fine strike in the 20th minute before former MFM FC defender, Adeyinka Najeem doubled their lead with a stunning strike from the right. 

Ifeanyi Ogba reduced the deficit for Ottasolo FC in the 39th minute before David Nnaji made it 3-1 to Niger Tornadoes just before halftime. 

Ottasolo FC fought hard to level the scoring but could only get a spot kick in the 90th minute, and it was converted by Tomola Megba for 3-2 to Niger Tornadoes. 

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW: 

Coordinator of Dapo Abiodun preseason tournament, Oye Bawala praised the effort of teams who have made it to the semifinals. 

“We want to use this medium to appreciate all the teams that came for the tournament this year and also congratulate the four teams, who have made it to the semifinals, we wish them all the best. 

“A special mention to Niger Tornadoes, who made it to the tournament from Minna, we really appreciate them for participating in this year’s tournament. We hope to see them next year”. Bawala said.

#DapoAbidounCup21 Day One Wrap: 3SC pips Kwara Utd as Remo Stars outclass Ottasolo FC

Shooting Stars kickstart their title defense on a winning note with a 1-0 win over Kwara United. Both sides had their chances but failed to convert in the first 45 minutes. 

Oluyole Warriors started strong in the second half and broke the dreadlock with a fine header from Malomo Ayodeji in the 47th minute. 

An entertaining affair between Gateway United and Ijebu United in a local derby which produced three goals. Ijebu claimed a 2-1 win against Gateway with all the goals coming in the first half of the game. 

Remo Stars cruised to a 2-0 win over Ottasolo FC. The sky blue stars started strong after hitting the post early in the game from a Dayo Ojo’s freekick. 

Tolulope Ojo opened scoring with a well placed shot in the 70th minute after Qudus Akanni played a fine cross from the right. Seun Ogunribide sealed the win, after scoring a sumptuous freekick in the 90th minute. 

It ended a stalemate between MFM FC and Niger Tornadoes in the last game of Matchday One. Niger Tornadoes almost claimed all three points in the final minutes of the game but a goal line clearance from Chinonso Michael ensured the match end in a draw. 

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW: 

Remo Stars coach, Gbenga Ogunbote spoke about the qualities of his team after their 2-0 win over Ottasolo FC. 

“We have talented, quality, and young players, we are working to make a big statement in the season. We are a work in progress. The tournament has high quality and it offers a good opportunity to continue working with the team”. 

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

#DapoAbidounCup21

CONE Sports identify with organizers to boost Unity Preseason Tournament

 

A leading sports ware company in the country, CONE SPORTS has reached agreement with the  organizers of the Unity Preseason Tournament (Unity Cup) to be the official kit partners of the tournament. The tournament holds in Abuja from 30th October to 5th November. 

Revealing this in Abuja at the weekend, the Coordinator of the tournament, Patrick Ngwaogu expressed happiness on the milestone achieved in the agreement. 

According to him,  the company has agreed to kit the two finalists, kit the official of the teams, kit the Organizing  officials and provide the match balls. He was full of praises for the Chief Executive officer of Cone Sports, Mr. Cletus Okojie for his commitment to the development of sports in country. 

Ngwaogu who was the immediate past First Vice Chairman of FCT Football Association also revealed that the Organizers have reached agreement with some hoteliers in the capital city to provide accommodate to the teams at a subsidized rate. He said the broadcast partners of tournament will also be revealed within the week. 

Teams participating in the tournament are Plateau United, Nasarawa United, Lobi Stars, Kwara United, and Niger Tornadoes. The NNL clubs will include ABS, Kogi United, EFCC FC, NAF FC and FRSC FC.

Draws for Gov Dapo Abiodun Cup hold on Monday, teams set to arrive

 

The third edition of the Gov Dapo Abiodun preseason tournament is set to take centre stage in Ijebu-Ode, as teams set for arrival on Monday, 11th of October, 2021. 

Ijebu-Ode will be a host to 12 teams for a week, in the tourney created to prepare teams for the regular season. 

Shooting Stars have won the two previous editions of the Dapo Abiodun preseason tournament with a 1-0 win over Delta Force and Lobi Stars in 2019 and 2020 season respectively. 

The defending champions, Shooting Stars promoted to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) this season and will be joined by Kwara United, MFM FC, Gombe United, Remo Stars, Wikki Tourists, Sunshine Stars, Niger Tornadoes in the tournament which kicks off on October 12. 

Draws for the tournament will take place on Monday, 11th of October at the Dipo Dina Stadium by 5pm.

Daniel Edeh dreams NPFL title with Niger Tornadoes

... Describes Coach Bala a father figure

Niger Tornadoes versatile defender Daniel Edeh caught the eyes of football lovers and pundits with his dazzling skills in the NNL and run up to winning the Super 8 title, in what could best be described as a fantastic debut season with the Ikon Allah Boys.

The former Osun United player who joined the Minna based outfit before the commencement of the  2020/2021 season, wasted no time to cement his position in the heart of the team's defense, forming a formidable partnership with Sunday Akinmoladun and dishing out commanding display week in, week out. 

It is worthy of note that in the journey to achieving promotion and winning the Super 8 Trophy, Niger Tornadoes was adjudged as the best defensive team this season and statistics abound to buttress this fact - the Ikon Allah Boys lost only five matches in the close season, including the defeat to Rivers United in the Aiteo Cup quarter final and conceded just 12 goals in all competitions, Tornadoes defense line marshalled by Daniel Edeh & Sunday Akinmoladun is a nightmare to strikers as the dou consistently churn out eye-catching  performances to keep the team water tight at the back.

At some point in the season "Dinno" as Daniel Edeh is popularly called was deployed in the midfield pivot in what was a tactical master piece, he played in that role when Niger Tornadoes defeated Yobe Desert Stars in Damaturu to further underline his credential as a top and team player. 

Daniel Edeh featured in all official matches for the Ikon Allah Boys this season and his penalty goal against El-Kanemi Warriors in the Super 8 opened the flood gate of goals for the NNL Champions, his gesture prior to taking the decisive penalty in a tension soaked atmosphere when he said ... "Coach I will play it"  he eventually did and scored and that further demonstrate his zeal, determination, commitment, confidence and composure as a reliable player. 

Daniel Edeh is strong, intelligent, mobile and an all round discipline player, 

Dinno had a brief chat with Tornadoes Media:

Question:

Which Footballer Inspires You ( Role Model)?

Answer: 

Sergio Ramos; The way he treats his colleagues and encourages them is exemplary. He's a true leader and a winner. 

Question: 

Who is your room mate, tell us about him/them.?

Answer:

 Oche Josiah and lucky Jumoh, "both of them are fun to be with and they ginger me and they correct me when I go wrong on and off the field of play and that helps me a lot.

Question:

After promotion to NPFL what is your next target?

Answer:

Winning the NPFL title and becoming the best defender in the Nigerian elite league and probably playing in Europe as well. 

Question:

Which club side do you support in Europe? 

Answer: Manchester United.

Question:

Do you dream of playing for any of the National Teams anytime soon? 

Answer:

Yes, to play for the Under20 or Under 23 team and I believe it’s a dream that is going to become reality one day.

Question:

What impresses you more about Coach Abubakar Bala Mohammed & Niger Tornadoes?

Answer:

He is a father figure because of the way he relates & treats his players. His pattern of play and the way the club takes care of her players is second to none.