Kwara state based SGFC Athletics Sports Club surprisingly emerged champions of Jagaban Cup 2025 as they defeated 36 Lion 5-4 on penalties after full time ended 0-0.
The intriguing but highly pulsating encounter was the fourth match for both sides which topped their various group, but it was SGFC Athletics that eventually emerged victors to finish the tournament without losing a single game.
Interestingly, no one gave them a chance before the tournament, and they were no where among the favourites, but they silenced everyone to lift the trophy in an emphatic manner.
The club which plays in the Nigeria Nationwide League Division One (NLO) made their intentions known early in the tournament but not many paid attention. They won their three group matches to finish as the only side with a 100% record plus maximum points against all odds.
Therefore, their winning the tournament isn’t a fluke said the General Manager of the club, Olatoye Olawole, who lauded the organizers of the Jagaban Cup for their exceptional organization.
He said they are expectant of doing business which is the major reason they came, hoping that their victory has even put them more in the spotlight to stand a better chance of being seen.
Hajj Liameed Gafar the brain behind the commendable tournament which is in its third year now, promised that the tournament would continue to be hosted in Lagos even as he affirmed that it would maintain the invitational format arrangement of eight teams.
The Lagos state Football Association boss prayed for long life and good health for President Ahmed Bola Tinubu whom the tournament epitomizes.
Meanwhile, Ikorodu City fell by 1-0 to Ijebu United in the losers final (third place) at the same venue, Legacy Pitch, Surulere, Lagos where the tournament was held.
Eight top teams participated in the tournament there are 36 Lion, SGFC Athletic, Broadcity, Ikorodu City, Ijebu United, Imperial, FC Bethel Sporting and Dino Sports Club.
