Alansmith delivers FIFA 2-star pitch for Imperial Football Academy

 

Alansmith Nigeria Limited has once again delivered a world-class sports facility to one of its clients, Imperial Football Academy, located in Odogbolu, Ogun State. 

This achievement reinforces its status as a leading player in the construction of sports facilities in West Africa.

Joshua Adamu, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of Alansmith Nigeria Limited, shared insights into the project, which was completed in record time. 

"The Imperial Football Academy sports facility boasts a 9,200 sqm pitch made of 60mm double-colour monofilament grass with a shock pad, rated FIFA 2-star," Adamu informed. 

"This makes it one of the largest privately owned pitches of this standard, as Alansmith Nigeria Limited is dedicated to sports development."

Adamu, a seasoned construction expert who has successfully established Alansmith Nigeria Limited as a prominent brand in sports facility construction, further remarked. 

"I remember when the project began; the site was in a remote location. We planned, budgeted, designed, and executed the entire project from start to finish, thus strengthening our reputation as the one-stop shop for a sports construction firm."

Moses Itua Boxing Academy Strikes Gold in Inaugural Training Camp, Unveil Future Champions

 

In a significant stride towards nurturing emerging talent in the world of combat sports, Itua Moses Boxing Academy successfully conducted its inaugural training camp at its permanent site in Oloparun, along Ado Odo Road, Owode Yewa, Ogun State.

Event Highlights:

The one-day training camp, a culmination of extensive scouting programs nationwide, featured young boys and girls from Ogun State and neighboring Lagos State engaging in both boxing and Taekwondo disciplines.

Educational and Energetic Session:

The training session, marked by insightful coaching, showcased the beauty of boxing and Taekwondo moves, drawing intermittent cheers from the enthralled audience. Coaches dedicatedly imparted their knowledge to the young participants, fostering a learning environment aimed at honing their skills.

Itua's Vision:

Founder and former national taekwondo fighter, Itua Moses, expressed the club's overarching goal of producing a future world champion, with emphasis on talents discovered and nurtured exclusively by Itua Moses Boxing Club.

Participant Testimonials:

"The convener has initiated something wonderful," lauded Grand Master Kehind Salawu. 

Echoing his sentiments Boxing Coach, Adbul-Akeem Abdul Gafar commended Itua Moses for his visionary efforts in shaping the future of boxing in Nigeria: "Being part of Moses Itua Boxing Academy's first training camp was an incredible experience."

"The coaches not only taught us the art of boxing and Taekwondo but also instilled in us the values of discipline and perseverance. I am grateful to Itua Moses for this wonderful initiative that is shaping us into potential champions. The cheers from the audience fueled our determination, and I am excited about the journey ahead towards becoming a skilled athlete like myself." Idris Ibrahim, Taekwondo athlete said.

Itua Moses' Dedication:

Having transitioned from a national taekwondo fighter to his current base in London, Itua Moses remains devoted to the development of young boxers in Nigeria. His commitment to this cause underscores a passion for fostering talent and contributing to the nation's sporting legacy.

Lagos Supremacy Cup: Dino SC promise to replicate club's ideology

 

Samuel Omamofe Columbus, the Chairman of Dino Sporting Club says impacting positively in the lives of youngsters and giving them the opportunities to pursue their life time dream in the round leather game are the reasons he invested in football.

The club combines the latest football and educational facilities in shaping and preparing players for thier professional journey.

According to Columbus, Dino SC provides quality development training and enabling environment for the young players.

Dino Sporting Club which was established in 2016 will participate at the Lagos Supremacy Cup. 

The amiable Columbus shared his thoughts on his team's and their expectations. 

"The boys are excited and motivated to be part of the Lagos Supremacy Cup," Columbus said.

"We are ready to give out the best brand of football during the tournament.

The Lagos Supremacy Cup will hold from 25th to 28th March at Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

Introducing Dino Sporting Club; Hub for nurturing young players through latest football techniques

 

Dino Sporting Club is a professional football Club/Academy, positively impacting in the lives of youngsters, giving them the opportunities to pursue their life time dream in the round leather game.

The Club combines the latest football and educational facilities  in shaping and preparing our players for their professional journeys.

Visions:

(a) We provide quality development training and enabling environment for the young players and turn them next professional stars.

(b) We scout and help young players reach their potential in the game, education and everyday life. 

(c) We Prepare them for a life outside and after football just as important. 

(2). Dino Sporting Club was established in 2016 by Business man/philanthropist, Chief Samuel Omamofe Columbus. 

The club is based in Abeokuta, Ogun State Nigeria. 

The boys are excited and motivated to be part of this year Lagos Supremacy Cup and  ready to give out their very best  football skills in creativity and Hard work and importantly good manners at all times in learning

Samuel Columbus: Dino SC boss bags national appointment, OGSFA award

 

Dino Sporting Club CEO, Omomafe Samuel Columbus has received an award of excellence from the Ogun State Football Association.

According to the OGSFA led by board member of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, the recognition is as a result of Columbus's immense contributions to the development football in the state and country at large.

The recognition came few days after he was appointed as the Deputy Director of Sports and Social Development by the Nigeria Youth Congress.

According to his letter of appointment signed by the President of the Nigeria Youth Congress, Blessing Akinlosotu, it stated : 

"Sequel to the ongoing re-organization and restructuring of the Nigerian Youth Congress in conformity with modern-day reality, global best practices and in consonance with the NYC", 

"Constitution, the President has approved your appointment as the Deputy Director, "

"Directorate of Sports and Social Development for effective running and administration of the Congress in Nigeria. You are to ensure you act within the provisions of the bylaws of NYC and the operational".

An elated Columbus who is the CEO of amateur side Dino Sporting Club, said : 

"I'm really happy and honored to receive these recognitions from Ogun FA and Nigeria Youth Congress,

"Sometimes I'm a bit shy, but I'm really happy to be recognized for my quota to the growth of Nigerian youths and society at large.

"The recognitions mean I'm on the right track, and must be do something right, but I can assure you, I'm not done yet, I'm inspired to give more to Sports and the community as whole." He said.

Mr Columbus, a seasoned grassroot football administration is known for his dedication and passion for sports and community development.

He has positively affected the lives of young Nigerians which constitute the largest percentage of Nigeria's population and contribute to Community Development and Nation Building in the spirit of Volunteering.

Columbus has also helped young Nigerians fulfilled their dream of becoming a professional football player through his various grassroot football competitions, with international scouts in attendance.

He currently presides over Dino Sporting Club, one of the fastest rising football clubs in Nigeria, and the current Creative Championship League Cup holders.

The Club is also rated as the 2nd best in the Creative Championship League, behind Beyond Limits.

Amotekun's charm failed, Fire Service run out of water as maiden Ogun SWAN/Security & Safety Cup enters semifinal

The ongoing SWAN/Security and Safety Cup among security agencies in Ogun State has reached semi-final.

Four teams progressed to the Semi-final from Group A and B.

Nigeria Police finished top of Group A with 7points alongside second placed TRACE with 4points, while Amotekun and Fire Service crashed out of the competition.

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) qualified to the Semi-final with 7 points as leader of Group B alongside Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) with 5points.

The football team of Ogun state Police command will take on their counterpart from the Vehicle Inspection Service, VIS, in the first semi final.

The encounter slated for the main bowl of MKO International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta will kick off by 2pm on February 28.

In the second semi finals, TRACE will battle NSCDC by 4pm at same venue.

According the Chairman, Main Organizing Committee, Mr. Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji, the final match of the competition will come up on Wednesday, 2nd March, 2022.

He said Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun will be the Special Guest of Honour, the Speaker, Ogun state House of Assembly, Prince Olakunle Oluomo is the Guest of Honour while the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Sports, Hon. Olumide Osoba is the Chairman of the occasion.

Ogunsiji added that the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Dr. Oluwadare Kehinde is the Chief host, the Towulade of Akinale, Oba Olufemi Ogunleye is the royal father of the day.

E-SIGNED

SWAN SECRETARY

Evolution Cup attracts top UK licensed football agents

The duo of Lindi Ngwenya and Anthony Verrill from United Kingdom will be on ground for the NLO invitational pre-season tournament, Evolution Cup which runs from February 21 to 26 at Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.

Lindi and Anthony who are both top football agents would have the opportunity to scout for talented footballers that would feature for the 10 NLO teams participating in the competiton.

Olatoye Olawale, the Project Strategist, while reacting to the development revealed that the decision to attract top football agents is to leverage on the  platform to further market Nigerian players to the world. 

"The need for us to invite these agents is a product of our research which indicates that NLO teams house talented and impressive players- It would be a disservice on our part if these players doesn't get to exposed themselves to this kind of life-changing opportunity" he said.

Olatoye believes that the players would make good impression on the agents who have impeccable track records in creating opportunities for players across the world.

Evolution Cup is sponsored by Alphakay International Sport and packaged by Sportsflames Communication.

Owolabi Aleshinloye: OwoSports CEO, Magate FC GM to receive Baba Adini title from Islamic Group

 

General Manager of Nationwide League One (NLO) side Magate FC and ace Sports On Air Personality (OAP) on radio, Owolabi Aleshiloye will be turbaned as the Baba Adini of Rifkotullahi Islamic Society of Nigeria.

The turbaning ceremony will take place on February 20th at Idi-Oparun Irepodun Central Two, Idedo-Ota in Ogun State.

A delighted Aleshiloye, known as OwoSports in the media said; "Firstly I want to thank Almighty Allah (God) for the gift of life for me and my family.

"I also feel honored after the clerics of Rifkotullahi Islamic Society of Nigeria found me worthy of the title as Baba Adini.

"The title will spur me on to do more for Islam as it's a religion of peace. I want to also thank everyone at Rifkotullahi Islamic Society of Nigeria too."

Aleshiloye is been honoured with the Baba Adini title owing to his immense contributions towards the propagation of Islam in his community in Ado-Ota Local Government Area.

Organisers announce date for Evolution Cup draws

The draw for the maiden edition of Evolution Cup will be held at Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne on Saturday, 5 February, 2022, the organizers announced. 

Evolution Cup 2022, which is scheduled to take place from 21 February to 26 February at Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne will see Nationwide League (NLO) teams battle in a preseason tournament ahead of the new season. 

“We are ready for the draw on Saturday and I believe the teams can’t wait to see their pairings too. It will go down at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, which is also the venue for the tournament. 

“We want to use this tournament as a platform to make good preparations for NLO teams going into the new season”. Project strategist, Olatoye Olawale said. 

The draw is expected to start by 2pm on Saturday, 5th of February, 2022 with teams representative and other stakeholders in attendance.

The tournament, sponsored by Alphakay International Sports and Packaged by Sportflames communication will feature Abraysports FC, Right 2 Win FC, Olansile FC, Hammola International FC and Beyond Limits FC.

Other teams that would be rolling out their aces for the 5-day soccer fiesta are Rolly FC, Magic Stars FC, Olukismet FC, Ilaji FC and SGFC Athletics .

Ismael Sadjo, Rose Akusho steal show at 2021 Bigi Abeokuta 10 KM Race

 

Ismaeel Sadjo from Cross River state on Saturday, November 13, 2021 emerged champion of the Bigi Abeokuta 10 kilometre race (Men category) to claim the two thousand dollars prize money.

The race started at the popular Ake palace, and Sadjo got to the finish line at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta after thirty one minutes and three seconds (31.03)

In a race that featured 100 percent indigenous runners, Stephen Joshua from Plateau state finished second with a time of thirty one minutes and forty three seconds (31.43), while Emmanuel Gyang finished as the second runner up (32.05).

In the women version, Plateau state athletes took centre stage as three of their runners finished on the podium.

Rose Akusho took the top prize with a time of thirty six minutes and twenty nine seconds (36.29), she was closely followed by Vera Yahanna who got to the finish line after thirty seven minutes, five seconds (37.05), just as Patience Dalyop took the third Position with a  time of (38.05).

The top three in the male and female category were presented with a cheque of two thousand dollars, one thousand five hundred dollars and one thousand dollars in that order.

The wheelchair race had Sefiu Ojeleye, Akanni Jelili and Shola Opaleke as the podium finishers respectively in the male category, while Olajumoke Olajide, Chika Enwerem and Nofisat Adefala emerged as the winner, first runner up and second runner up in that order in the female version.

Organizers of the Abeokuta 10 kilometre Race, Nilayo Sports Management Limited confirmed that the athletes will be credited in a record time of 48 hours.

Managing Director of NSML, Hon. Bukola Olopade at the end of the event appreciated the sponsors and the Ogun state government for the tremendous support, he added that their limitless contribution will continue to strengthen and empower the youth, and also give a facelift to the sports sector in the country.

Hon. Olopade made it known that the decision to feature just indigenous athletes at this edition of the Abeokuta 10 kilometre race has already proven to be a success.

He said "Our decision to have a Home land race for the first time has yielded positively, and going forward, we will review this decision and if it will be best for the Abeokuta 10 kilometre race to remain as a race for Indigenes, so be it".

"This wouldn't have been possible without the support from our sponsors, Rite Foods, makers of the Bigi Brand, Access Bank, Suzuki, Coleman Wires and Cables, IBD Hotels and others, we sincerely appreciate everything you have committed into this project, one thing we will continue to assure you is the quality, value and a good mileage for your input" 

"We also appreciate the Executive governor of Ogun State, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, the enabling environment is unrivalled, we will not take this support for granted".

"We are already looking forward to the next edition which we believe will be bigger and better, thank you everyone".

At the end of the event, Legendary Fuji musician, Alhaji Sefiu Alao (Baba Oko thrilled the audience at the MKO Abiola Stadium, rave of the moment, Alayo Melody singer (Global Legend of Orchestra) was also on hand to entertain the crowd.

Another top rated juju musician, Boye Best also created magic, while fast rising Abeokuta based hype man, Michael Fadiya (MOTM) infused energy to wrap up the epoch making event.

Chairman, House Committee on Sports, Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Olumide Osoba was present at the flag off of the race which had earlier received Royal Blessings from the Alake and Paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo.

The Secretary to the state government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi led the extremely powerful state government delegation which also had commissioner for youth and sports, Dr. Kehinde Oluwadare, his local government and chieftaincy affairs associate, Hon. Afolabi Afuape, special assistant to the governor on youth and sports, Lamide Lawal, special assistant on Job creation, Mr. Abiola Odetola and a host of others.

Captains of industry, prominent people from different walks of life were also in attendance

Alake of Egbaland gives royal blessing to Abeokuta 10KM Race, hails organizers

 

The Alake and Paramount ruler of Egba Land, Oba Dr. Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo on Thursday endorsed the 2021 Abeokuta 10KM Race.

The Royal endorsement and validation took centre stage during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Monarch by  the management and staff of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, led by the Managing Director,  Hon. Bukola Olopade.

The Paramount ruler who threw his weight behind the event noted that Abeokuta 10km race which debuted in 2019 has further announced Abeokuta, the whole of Egba Land and Ogun State at large to the world as a city of limitless innovations.

He said "Bukola Olopade has done a tremendous job with sports promotion in Nigeria, and I believe that what we are going to witness on Saturday will be bigger than what we  saw two years ago"

"I am always proud to be associated with success, it's a very good feeling to also have hundred percent indigenous runners at this edition"

"Whenever I see Kenyans and Ethiopians dominate races in Nigeria, it's always my wish to witness one that will be won by a Nigerian, so it gladdens my heart that the first to produce a Nigerian winner is happening in Egba Land"

Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo confirmed that he will be on ground to join top government officials at the start point of the race for flag off on Saturday.

In his remark, MD/ Chief Executive Officer, Nilayo Sports Management Limited Hon. Bukola Olopade appreciated the highly revered monarch for his Royal Blessings and support over the years, he also explained how the Abeokuta 10km race has continued to gather momentum ahead of its second edition.

"Your highness, the Abeokuta 10KM race is the first Internationally approved race to be localised, all the ingredients of an international race will still be put in place despite having just local runners"

Hon. Olopade assured of a World class event, devoid of hitches come November 13, 2021, and appreciated headline sponsors Rite Foods Nigeria, makers of the Bigi brand and other affiliate sponsors like Suzuki who also had a representative at the event.

Present at the visit were top Chiefs of Egba Kingdom including the Osi Of Egba Land, Chief Bode Mustapha and the Baaroyin of Egba Land, Chief Lai Labode.

Others are Chief Kehinde Sofenwa, the Bantun of Egba Land, Chief Akanni Akinwale, Baagbimo of Egba Land, Oba Oniro of Iro and the Onitafin elect.

The Chief Operating Officer, Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Mr.  Ebidowei Oweifie was also in attendance alongside Project Manager of the race Mr Seyi Johnson, branding manager Mrs. Jumoke Adekanye and other staff of NSML.

Members of the Press from different media organizations also attended the courtesy visit.

Ojukwu bags hat-trick in Remo Stars' bashing of Osun United

 

Ojukwu Ifeogwu of Remo Stars became the leading goals scorer in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup pre-season tournament after his team trounced Osun United 4-0.

The rescheduled Group A match, saw Ojukwu shoot a hat trick past a helpless Omoluabi Giants goalkeeper in an early kickoff game hosted at the Remo Stars Stadium.

The Gbenga Ogunbote lads took the game to their opponents and at the quarter of an hour, their fierce attacking play was rewarded with a goal, as Noah Ojuola opened the flood gate of goals with his strike.

Ojukwu Ifeogwu extended the lead with two quick goals for his first and brace in the 33rd minute and 35th minutes to the delight of his team and anguish on the faces of Osun United bench, whose defence wall collapsed owing to the attacking prowls of the Sky Blues Stars.

The newly-promoted Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) side then went into the dressing room comfortably with a 3-0 lead, thus leaving the Osun United bench to proffer solutions to its formation.

Osun United then came out strong in the second half, but as they searched for their first goal in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, they got punished for taking their chances and exposing their backline once again.

This time Ojukwu made no mistake and he put the icing on the cake to hit his hat-trick with a 53rd minute finish.

Remo Stars who topped the Group A log with 3points and with a plus for goals difference will battle second-placed MFM FC in a southwest derby match on Sunday, while Osun United lock horns against FC Yobo.

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.

Historic comeback as Destiny Boys rally to emerge NLO Super 8 Champions

Destiny Boys have emerged champions of the Nationwide League One (NLO) after they defeated Campos FC in a five-goal thriller at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne on Friday.

It was a game of two halves that saw the Ikorodu based team come from behind to win 3-2 after scoring three second half goals.

Campos FC took the lead after Nzubechi Ogbuehi scored two quick goals in the 34th and 37th minute to put his team in the driver's seat, as the Owerri based team finished the half with a 2-0 lead.

It was a huge turn around of events in the second half after Enyimba legend, Ayo Saka scored in the 58th which appeared to be the right tonic Destiny Boys needed.

As the game entered the last 10 minutes, Uzoma Chinonso pounced on lose ball from Campos defenders sloppy defending to put the scoreline as 2-2 in the 82nd minutes.

With eight more minutes and added-time, the boys from Ikorodu were determined not to take the game to penalty shootout as they had faith in destiny.

As they piled up the heat on Campos defence, they were gifted a third and winning goal after Awolonu Chukwuebube put the ball in his own goal in the 89th minute.

It was little too late for Campos to put up an attack as the match official signalled end of play after three minutes of added time.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ikenne comes alive as Optima Energy NLO Super 8 begins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Group A 

JNR Danburan

Destiny 

Doma FC 

Udala FC 

Group B

Ijebu United 

Campus 

JM Liberty 

Ottasolo FC

Eventual winners of Abeokuta 10KM Race will receive prize money in record time - Organizers

The organizers of Abeokuta 10 kilometre race, Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), have revealed that eventual winners at the 2021 edition scheduled for November 13 will be paid 48 hours after the race.

Managing Director of NSML, Hon. Bukola Olopade said it's a record time of crediting winners, a development he described as a step in the right direction.

The 2021 Abeokuta 10 kilometre race with the theme, "Naija, Race For Homeland" is restricted to indigenous runners, the first time of having such in the history of races put together by the foremost sports marketing company.

In his words, Hon. Olopade, a former sports commissioner in the Gateway state said measures are already in place to ensure a hitch free race, he added that the City of Abeokuta is extremely ready to host the indigenous athletes coming from different part of the country.

He said "Winners will get their prizes 48 hours after the race, it's a record time of payment, the history is there for all to see"

"We are extremely glad to put up ideas that will add quality to what we have put in place, come November 13, the indigenous athletes will witness a top notch road race which is strictly for Naija, our Homeland"

"With the support we have from our sponsors and the Ogun State government, we are ready for the great Abeokuta 10KM Race"

At stake is a two thousand dollars ($2,000) prize money for the eventual winner, while the second and third to reach the finish line will go home with one thousand five hundred dollars ($1500), and one thousand dollars ($1000) in that order.

The 2021 Abeokuta 10 kilometre race will also have a Wheelchair category where the top three runners will receive five hundred thousand naira, three hundred thousand naira and two hundred thousand naira respectively.

The take off point for the race is the Ake Palace, it will terminate at the MKO Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW: 

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

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

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

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

#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

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

 

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

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

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

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

Dapo Abiodun Preseason Tournament: Draw 

Group  A 

Shooting Stars

Kwara United

Gateway United

Ijebu United

Group B 

Sunshine Stars

Remo Stars

MFM FC

Niger Tornadoes 

Ottasolo FC. 

MATCHDAY ONE FIXTURES: 

Shooting Stars vs Kwara United 

Kickoff: 7-30am 

Venue: Main Bowl 

Gateway United vs Ijebu United

Kickoff: 9-30am  

Venue: Practice Pitch 1

Remo Stars vs Ottasolo FC  

Kickoff: 9-30am

Venue: Main Bowl 

MFM  FC vs Niger Tornadoes  

Kickoff: 3-30pm  

Venue: Main Bowl.