Optima Energy Gold Cup: FC Ebedei shocks Ikorodu City in Sagamu

 

FC Ebedei held on to a 1-0 win, as they handed newly-promoted Nigeria Premier Football League Ikorodu City a reality check in the ongoing Optima Energy Gold Cup preseason tournament on Sunday in Sagamu. 

It was an exciting match, as both sides were on the back foot of each other for most of the match at the FC Ebedei Stadium. 

The Oliseh Boys took a deserved, rather an unexpected lead after Ikechukwu Ologun deflected shot beats Ikorodu City goalkeeper in the 13th minute. 

Ten minutes later, the Oga Boys almost leveled the game but was denied by the wood work, as a Tosin Oyedokun long shot after taking on his maker, he rattled the goal for a goal kick. 

The second 45 minutes saw Ikorodu City throwing their arsenals in the game in search of an equalizing goal. They almost did in the 57 minute. 

Solomon Emmanuel took on his maker to set Adebayo Adewale up with pass, but the right back sent his inviting low cross to Tosin Oyedokun, whose final effort went wide.

Both goalkeepers were outstanding in the final two minutes of the game, providing some top class saves, as the Oliseh Boys defence held on to the lead cutting out the strike force of Ikorodu City from doing any damage. 

FC Ebedei will next face Shooting Stars in the Group B top of the clash for a spot in the Optima Energy Gold Cup semi-final.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Debutant Kasam FA humbles Ijebu United in Optima Energy Gold Cup opening fixture

The opening game of the Optima Energy Gold Cup 12th edition at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, lived up to the hype as debutants Kasam FC of Ilorin defeated last year's runners-up Ijebu United 2-1.

It was an interesting first half for both teams, but Ijebu United will rue their misses and the unfortunate own goal that gifted Kasam FC the 3 points.

Obashina Rilwan put Ijebu United ahead, making good use of his physique, as he turned away from his marker to nod from a cross to the top left corner of the goal in the quarter of an hour. 

The lead only lasted for six minutes, as Ijebu United was punished for a needless foul inside the box. Kolawope Obalola made no mistake in converting the penalty to 1-1.

Kasam FC broke the camel's back in the 38th minute, taking the lead via a Charles Igwe strike that deflected off the heels of Ijebu United's Ejioke Michael for an own-goal

The second half saw much attacking play from both teams, but Ijebu United were left to rue their misses.

Itel seals partnership with Optima Energy Gold Cup

 

Leading consumer electronics brand, itel, has partnered with the 12th edition of the Optima Energy Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament with the Player of the Match award. 

Defending champions, Beyond Limits, will battle nine other football clubs drawn for the Nigeria three-tiers division leagues- Nigeria Premier Football League, Nigeria National League, Nationwide League One and a visiting team from West Africa. 

The Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, and FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu will host the sought-after pre-season tourney from Thursday, August 15th to Saturday 24th, 2024.

itel’s ATL Marketing Manager, Omachona Eguda, has this to say; ‘As we honor the exceptional talents on the field with the Player of the Match awards, we are reminded of the power of determination and passion that drives both our brand and these remarkable athletes. Together, we are elevating the spirit of sportsmanship and community across Nigeria."

Tunde Shamsudeen to the tourney's Media Channel: "We're delighted to have itel, global leading smart life brand committed to providing affordable and good quality consumer electronic products onboard as one of our partners. 

"They will be supporting the Optimal Energy Gold Cup with Player of the Match awards and with itel limited edition gifts.”

"Second FC Ebedei stadium will be world-class" - Joshua Adamu

FIFA and CAF-certified sports facility expert and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Alan Smith, Joshua Adamu has informed plans to deliver another world-class stadium for FC Ebedei.

Joshua Adamu gave the hint of the plan while in a media chat with Family United By Football (FUBF) an informative sports group on a social media platform- WhatsApp. 

According to the Innovative and energy-driven sports facility manager of repute, "The FC Ebedei Stadium is three years old and still counting and it's still looking new. This is because quality was not compromised, and the core expert was used.

"Interestingly, the stadium is about the only pitch in Nigeria presently running fully on the French drain. You don't see any open drainage on the pitch.

"All drainages are underground and it's also one of the few pitches in Nigeria on full shock pads, not the usual underlays.

"So that gives the pitch extra cushion effects, and the players will be able to enjoy it and that's why experts and scouts that have visited the pitch have been commending the work done there. 

"By the grace of God, this year, FC Ebedei will be having its second stadium ready. That will be coming with a better quality and new look. They say the reward for good work is more work. 

"We are proudly associated with that pitch and we intend to build on it. What you see there is simple quality and no compromise."

NLO1: Five Star Ogonna Okoro inspires Dino Sporting Club to crumble Olumo

Dino Sporting Club delivered a resounding 12-0 victory over Olumo United in their recent clash in the Nationwide LeagueOne, NLO1 playoffs on Wednesday.

Led by the stellar performance of Ogonna Hyacinth, who netted an impressive five goals, Dino Sporting Club showcased their prowess on the field, securing their third win of the campaign.

Solomon Etim set the tone with a well-executed goal, followed swiftly by Ogonna Hyacinth's close-range strike to double the lead. 

Henry Madubuku extended the advantage with a successful penalty kick, while Zakari Haruna sealed the first half with a fourth goal just before halftime.

Returning from the break, Ogonna Hyacinth wasted no time in adding to the tally, securing his second goal of the game. 

The onslaught continued as Stephen Ende notched the sixth goal, before Ogonna Hyacinth completed his hat-trick in dazzling fashion just minutes later.

Undeterred, Ogonna Hyacinth continued his scoring spree, notching his fourth and fifth goals of the match with remarkable ease, further solidifying Dino Sporting Club's commanding lead. 

Jibril Mohammed then capped off the remarkable victory with a hat-trick of his own, completing the emphatic 12-0 triumph.

With this stunning win, Dino Sporting Club has firmly established their dominance in the NLO1 league, having won three out of their four games and securing a draw in the remaining fixture. 

Their formidable performance sends a clear message to their competitors as they aim for continued success in the league.

Wabzeem Sports partners Optima Energy Gold Cup with MVP, Golden Shoe prizes

A reputable sports management firm based in Ibadan, Wabzeem has become the newest partner of the Optima Energy Gold Cup pre-season tourney ongoing in Ikenne and Apele-Sagamu, Ogun State.

Wabzeem Sports Management who joined the Optima Energy Gold Cup will be gifting the tournament Most Valuable Player and top scorer a unique plaque as an award for superb brilliance.

General Coordinator, Tunde Shamsudeen told the nation's prestigious pre-season tourney' Media Channel: "We are delighted that Wabzeem Sports Management has identified with the Optima Energy Gold Cup brand by way of partnership.

"They will be presenting an MVP and golden shoe award to the best player after the final of the 10 days tournament.

"Let me inform that, just after Matchday 2 in the 11th edition of the tourney designed to prepare teams in the three-tier division of Nigeria's  domestic leagues, we have seen more than four players already in the hunt for both awards, following their impressive showing for their respective teams and scoring form at goal.

"An interesting thing we have lined up, is fan activation, as they will be the ones to vote the Optima Energy Gold Cup  pre-season tourney MVP at the final.

Wabzeem Sports Management, under the umbrella of Oladele Barees, are known for breeding champion for the future and represent players interest in and out the shores of Nigeria.

Sunshine Stars, Ijebu United to kickoff Optima Energy Gold Cup Tourney

Former champions Sunshine Stars will battle debutant Ijebu United in a southwest derby as the Optima Energy Gold Cup 11th edition kicks off 3pm on Friday, at the electrifying Remo Stars International Stadium in Ikenne - Ogun State.

Optima Energy Gold Cup, the nation's prestigious pre-season tourney avail clubs in the three tiers of the domestics League- Nigeria Premier Football League, Nigeria National League and Nationwide League One the platform to prepare their squad going into the new season.

Sunshine Stars, Beyond Limits FA, Ijebu United and Hammola FC make up the teams in Group A and will have their matches in Ikenne.

Seventh edition champion in Ilorin, Niger Tornadoes and back-to-back finalist Shooting Stars will be having their hands full in Group B, as they tackle 'giant killers' FC Ebedei and Tradesafe FC at the FC Ebedei Stadium in Apele-Sagamu.

General Coordinator of the tourney, Tunde Shamsudeen says anxious Optima Energy Gold Cup fans should expect the best from the teams, who are poised to keep them on their edge of their seats at stadiums and where ever they are live streaming the matches from, with quality football artistry and sublime goals.

"The Optima Energy Gold Cup has over the years proven to be the best platform for clubs to take shape going into the season, and we are proud that we have written history with many clubs, who have gone to becoming NPFL champions, qualified for the CAF Champions League/ Confederation Cup and secured promotion.

"The tourney without bias, give teams in Nigeria's three-tier leagues equal opportunities to be part of its yearly event, and this year's edition will be no exception, as we have balanced groupings, with each consisting of teams in the NPFL, NNL and NLO.

"We expect a thriller in the opening game, as it's a southwest derby between Sunshine Stars and Ijebu United at the Remo Stars International Stadium."

Ebedei/ FC Midtjylland Invitational Tourney kicks off today in Sagamu

 

The 2nd edition of the FC Ebedei/ FC Midtjylland Invitational Tournament kicks off today at the FC Ebedei Stadium, Apele-Sagamu with blockbuster fixtures.

Five interesting teams are drawn from the Nigeria National League and Nationwide League One, Joy Cometh, Lagos (NNL), Hammola FC, Ido- Osun (NLO Div 1), Adanimogo FC, Akure (NLO Div 1), M&N FC, Ibadan (NLO Div 2) and host FC Ebedei (NNL) are to showcase their best talents in the scouting tourney.

The groupings A and B made available by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the tourney informed that FC Ebedei, Hammola and Joy Cometh are in Group A while the trio of Adanimogo FC, FC Ebedei and M&N FC make up Group B.

It will be an action-packed Matchday 1 with the opening fixture between NNL big-wigs FC Ebedei and Joy Cometh at 3 pm.

An hour later Joy Cometh will lock in against Hammola FC in a tricky tie as the last match of the day is between Hammola and FC Ebedei by 5 pm.

Action resumes on Matchday 2 (Friday) with a 3 pm fixture involving FC Ebedei and M&N FC.

At 4 pm, M&N FC will take on Adanimogo while the last fixture for the day fixed at 5 pm will be between Adanimogo and FC Ebedei.

According to the LOC, all matches will be streamed live on FC Ebedei tv.

Recall Shooting Stars were crowned winners of the inaugural edition after finishing on a plus two goals difference ahead of Cornerstone FC despite both teams finishing level on 6 points each.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ahmed Fresh hails organizers of Ogunjobi Gold Cup on two stadia innovation

 

Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) Executive Member and Chairman Technical and Development Committee, Ahmed Yusuf Fresh have given credits to the organizers of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup for using two stadia for its pre-season tournament.

The prestigious tourney which is in its 9th edition is been co-hosted at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikene and FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu, both in Ogun State.

Fresh who performed the official kick-off to set the tone of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup said, "The pre-season tournament has a name attached to it. Late Ogunjobi was a father figure in Nigeria's football, and glad we have used the pre-season to honour him.

"Marvelled at the level of works done at the FC Ebedei Stadium and a big kudos to Barrister Churchill Oliseh for this multi-million naira project. 

"This is what we want to see in our leagues across the three divisions, big applause to FC Ebedei President. If a Nationwide League One (NLO) team can have a FIFA /CAF certified stadium like this why not the over 350 clubs in the third-tier league and even the NNL and NPFL teams.

"I want to also commend the General Coordinator Tunde Shamsudeen and his team for maintaining the standard of the tourney and also thinking within the box to be the first  organizers to use two stadia to host its pre-season.

"The use of Remo Stadium and FC Ebedei Stadium for the Ogunjobi Gold Cup is for the benefit of the fans who are passionate about football."

Fresh, further said that he could grace the final on Saturday October 30, 2021 at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikene.

"The 9th edition won't be an exception, an assuring that if time permits I should be at the closing ceremony."

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.

Optima Energy is official sponsor of 2021 Ogunjobi Gold Cup

Indigenous oil and gas company, Optima Energy are now the new sponsor of Nigeria's prestigious Pre-Season Tourney Ogunjobi Gold Cup.

Tunde Shamsudeen, the General Coordinator of the tournament made known of the deal on Wednesday.

"It's another feather to our cap as we are very proud to announce Optima Energy Resources as our official sponsors.

"The sponsorship is a reward for our hard work over the years as the Ogunjobi Gold Cup has become a brand to the affiliate within Nigeria's domestic football," Shamsudeen said.

Optima Energy Resources Limited is an indigenous petroleum downstream marketing company having an ultra-modern white fuels depot in Koko, Delta State that is strategically positioned to serve the energy needs of the economy.

With over 50 and a growing number of petrol retail outlets that are meticulously positioned in almost all the geological zones of the country, Optima Energy Resources Limited is the preferred Energy choice availing the right quality, quantity of white fuels to the public in the most sincere and customer-friendly manner.

Meanwhile, the 9th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament will be co-hosted at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne and FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu from Thursday October 21 through Saturday October 30, 2021.

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

Oliseh ranks FC Ebedei Stadium as FIFA, CAF standard

Barrister Churchill Oliseh has revealed that the FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu meets all FIFA and CAF requirements as it can host high profile international matches.

The President of the reputable and professionally managed football club in Nigeria also confirmed that it took the contractors less than four months to deliver the world-class project.

According to him, "The FC Ebedei Stadium was one of our biggest priorities, we liased with different experts in the field and opted for the very best.

"We used premium FIFA quality astroturf grass produced in Europe with high tech underlay and shock pads for the pitch.

"The technology is to help protect players against the side effects of other types of artificial grass and base.

"The spine of the grass enables sliding without lacerations for the player's thus enhancing improved performance on the pitch and protection too."

The stadium is set to host the 9th edition of Nigeria's most prestigious pre-season tournament, the Ogunjobi Gold Cup in October.

Ogunye's strike for MFM FC to renews title hope

Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries FC, Ogunye Austine, 71st minute strike was all that the Olukoya Boys needed to beat Remo Stars FC in one of Matchday 32 fixtures of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) clash at Gateway International Stadium, Sagamu.

Remo Stars' Eric over the moon with winning goal

Remo Stars' Man of the Moment, Dufegha Eric says his debut goal and victory against Katsina United means a lot to him and the team. 

Osho expects positive debut with Remo Stars

Technical Adviser of Remo Stars Football Club, Fatai Osho has indicated that the fans should expect the best from his wards on Sunday.

Improving Remo Stars impressed Ugbade

The Technical Adviser of Remo Stars Football Club, Nduka Ugbade says he is happy that his boys are improving by game in the Nigeria Professional Football League.

NPFL Preview: Remo Stars vs Abia Warriors

The Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL match day three come alive on Sunday with one of the most teresting fixtures between Remo Stars and Abia Warriors.