The highly anticipated Lagos Supremacy Cup exploded into action at the Legacy Pitch on Monday morning, delivering a feast of goals and drama as defending champions Beyond Limits narrowly defeated a determined Broad City side in a five-goal thriller.
Defending champions Beyond Limits, hailing from Ikenne, kicked off their title defence with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Broad City. The match immediately set a high standard for the tournament’s intensity.
The Ikenne-based team wasted no time asserting their presence, with striker Gabriel Labi finding the net just seven minutes into the game with a composed and clinical finish, putting them ahead.
However, Broad City demonstrated resilience, swiftly countering the opener, their standout player, Jeremiah Christopher, equalized in the 17th minute to level the score. Christopher then stunned the champions by scoring his second goal from a quick rebound, suddenly handing Broad City a significant 2-1 lead and a considerable challenge to the favourites.
Undeterred, Beyond Limits pressed hard as the crowd was treated to a moment of brilliance when Ali Abdulazeez unleashed a stunning strike from outside the box, bringing the exciting encounter back to level terms at 2-2.
The dramatic climax arrived courtesy of Daniel Arierhi. In a late, decisive turn of events, Arierhi found the back of the net to score the match-winner, securing the 3-2 victory and the crucial three points for the defending champions. The win ensures Beyond Limits begin their campaign on a positive note, though not without a scare.
Another thrilling fixture that left fans buzzing was the captivating battle between Ikorodu City and Mavlon FC, which ultimately ended in a 2-2 draw.
Mavlon initially took firm control of the game. An unfortunate own goal by Ikorodu City defender Onyia Cornelius handed Mavlon the advantage, which was quickly doubled by a composed strike from Ezekiel Ogwu, giving Mavlon a comfortable two-goal lead.
Ikorodu City, affectionately known as the Oga Boys, were handed a lifeline when they won a penalty. Unfortunately for them, Ezekiel Samuel’s spot-kick was brilliantly thwarted by Mavlon goalkeeper Rufai Abubakar.
Despite the missed opportunity, the Oga Boys showcased immense fighting spirit, staging an impressive comeback. Goals from Orji Emmanuel and Shittu Hammed saw them claw their way back from a two-goal deficit to secure a well-deserved draw against a strong Mavlon side.
The day’s remaining fixtures also featured decisive goals and close margins.
Dosu Joseph FC secured a narrow 2-1 victory over 36 Lion, with the decisive goal coming late in the match, highlighting their tenacity and ability to fight until the final whistle.
In the final match of Day 1, Tripple 44 overcame Real Sapphire with a 2-1 scoreline. Tripple 44 got off to a quick start, with Abubakar Muhammed giving them an early lead after just 11 minutes.
Ijele Daniel pulled Real Sapphire level with a fantastic individual effort.
However, the fast-paced Tripple 44 side, showcasing moments of tactical brilliance, regained their advantage thanks to Bitrus Shedrach, who skillfully rounded the goalkeeper to score what ultimately proved to be the match-winner.
The opening day has certainly set the tone for an unpredictable and highly competitive tournament, with all teams showcasing their talent and determination in the quest for the Lagos Supremacy Cup title.
Day 1 Results:
36 Lion 1-2 Dosu Joseph FC
Beyond Limits 3-2 Broad City
Ikorodu City 2-2 Mavlon FC
Tripple 44 2-1 Real Sapphire
