Lagos, Nigeria– The inaugural Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Ex-Internationals Cup, organized by the Lagos State Football Association, has proven to be a nostalgic and thrilling experience, reminiscent of the glory days of former Nigerian football stars.
The tournament, which features ex-international players as coach-mentors for various teams, has been a journey marked by excitement, challenges, and memorable moments.
The path to the quarter-finals has been anything but smooth, with teams competing on sandy, uneven grounds across different community playgrounds. Despite these tough conditions, the tournament has showcased intense matches and fierce competition.
In the rounds of 32, former Super Eagles and West Bromwich Albion defender Ifeanyi Udeze faced off against legendary left winger Friday Elahor. Udeze's team emerged victorious in this highly anticipated match.
Another notable encounter saw Olympic medallist Joseph Dosu's team battling former Super Eagles striker Victor Agali's squad. After a first-leg home loss, Agali's team bounced back with a 2-0 away win, advancing to the next round.
The rounds of 16 featured a dominant performance by Mba Agbai, who defeated his former Stationery Stores captain Taiwo Oloyede with a 3-0 aggregate score.
The clash between Henry Nwosu and Fatai Amoo was particularly gripping, ending in a 9-8 penalty shootout victory for Nwosu's team after a dramatic comeback by Amoo's squad.
Coach Nduka Ugbade demonstrated his tactical acumen by guiding his team to a narrow 1-0 aggregate win over Michael Dominic's side.
The quarter-finals will see FC Agbai, FC Agali, FC Ekpo, FC Ugbade, and FC Nwosu competing, with the remaining spots to be filled by the winners of the FC Ikpeba vs. FC Ipaye, FC Okpara vs. FC Udeze, and FC Ayila vs. FC Obafemi matches.
Quarter-final matches are scheduled for Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at Mobolaji Johnson Arena and Legacy Pitch, Surulere.
The tournament, supported by Bet9ja, Owu Sportswear, Brila FM, Mavlon FC, and several other partners, promises more exciting football action.
