In a dramatic and fiercely contested final, Ikorodu City FC triumphed over defending champions Beyond Limits FC to clinch the coveted Lagos Supremacy Cup title on Thursday morning, marking a decisive shift in the state’s grassroots football hierarchy.
The highly anticipated showdown took place at the historic Legacy Pitch of the National Stadium in Lagos, drawing a sizable crowd. The stands were notably filled with numerous international scouts and prominent figures from Nigerian football, underscoring the tournament’s critical role in talent identification and development.
Ikorodu City, affectionately known as The Oga Boys, entered the final as determined challengers against a formidable Beyond Limits side that had dominated the competition in 2024.
The Oga Boys wasted no time establishing their intent. The deadlock was broken early by the prolific forward Ezekiel Samuel, who finished a well-worked attacking move, giving Ikorodu City a crucial lead and stunning the reigning champions.
Beyond Limits, known for their resilience, weathered the initial pressure and began to assert their passing game. Their sustained efforts paid off in the 59th minute when the tournament’s standout attacker, Daniel Arierhi, netted the equalizer. Arierhi’s strike, a testament to his influence throughout the campaign, brought the score level and set the stage for a tense final half-hour.
The match exploded back into life in the final ten minutes with a rapid exchange of goals that had spectators on the edge of their seats.
Ikorodu City regained the lead through Ezekiel Samuel, who completed his brace, showcasing his clinical finishing under pressure and reaffirming his position as a key man for the Oga Boys.
The drama was short-lived, however, as Beyond Limits immediately mounted a response. Defender Muhammed Abdullahi Ferinyaro rose highest to meet a corner kick, sending a powerful header past the goalkeeper to bring the score to a dramatic 2-2 parity just before the final whistle.
With nothing separating the two powerhouse teams after regulation time, the championship was decided by a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Both teams displayed exceptional composure, but it was Ikorodu City who held their nerve, converting five spot-kicks to Beyond Limits’ four, securing a famous 5-4 victory in the shootout. The eruption of cheers from the Ikorodu City camp signaled the end of Beyond Limits’ reign and the start of a new era.
In the battle for the bronze medal, 36 Lion FC put on a dominant display against Tripple 44 FC. 36 Lion’s attacking superiority proved too much for their opponents, as they ran out comfortable winners with a decisive 4-1 scoreline, claiming third place in the tournament.
Ikorodu City’s victory is more than just a trophy; it represents a significant achievement in the highly competitive Lagos football landscape. Dethroning the previous champions, Beyond Limits, solidifies the Oga Boys’ status as an elite development team in the region. The visibility of this win, particularly with international scouting presence, promises a bright future for the triumphant squad and its talented individuals.
