June 24, (THEWILL) – Remo Stars of Ikenne, who recently secured a spot in the 2023/2024 CAF Champions League, continued their successful season by qualifying for the national finals of the Naija Super Eight Play-off.
In an impressive display of their growing influence in the Southwest region, Remo Stars defeated the historically dominant club from the area, Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan, with a convincing 3-0 victory. Led by the skillful midfielder Qudus Akanni, Remo Stars swiftly established a two-goal lead within the first 12 minutes. Although 3SC attempted a comeback, they were unable to convert their chances, and Remo Stars maintained their advantage to secure their place in the national finals.
In the opening match of the tournament, Lobi Stars claimed the North-Central zone ticket by triumphing over City FC of Abuja in a captivating encounter that ended in a penalty shootout. The game started with City FC displaying early dominance and a clear opportunity to take the lead, but they failed to capitalise on it. Lobi Stars gradually grew into the match and eventually seized the lead in the 30th minute when David Okoroni scored off a defensive misunderstanding.
The second half saw City FC fighting back and successfully equalising through Ibrahim Mahfus in the 53rd minute. The City team took the lead in the 76th minute through Arinze Ogbonna, but Lobi Stars managed to level the score with Joseph Atule’s goal, sending the game to penalties. Lobi Stars emerged victorious, winning the penalty shootout 4-3.
The Naija Super Eight tournament, organized by Flykite Productions in collaboration with MultiChoice Nigeria and sponsors such as MTN, Hero Lager, DStv, GOtv, SuperSport, Moniepoint, Pepsi, and Custodian Assurance, offers substantial monetary rewards. Each participating team earns N3 million per game, with the runners-up receiving N9 million and the eventual winner claiming N25 million. Additionally, the best player in each match will be awarded N250,000, and there are incentives for teams with the most supportive fans.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
