Coach Tunde Adeshina has praised the standard of soccer on show on the ongoing Jagaban Cup 2026, describing the match as a robust platform for youth growth and expertise discovery in Lagos.
Talking after Matchday 1 on the Nationwide Stadium Surulere, Adeshina expressed admiration for the organisation and total normal of play, highlighting the presence of high soccer stakeholders as a key issue.
“I’m actually impressed with the usual of the sport right here. The competitors has set a report when it comes to high quality, particularly with the calibre of sporting administrators and the general organisation,” he stated.
The coach reserved particular reward for the organisers, led by Gafar Liameed, Chairman of the Lagos State Soccer Affiliation, noting that sustained funding in grassroots soccer is starting to yield seen outcomes.
“I’ll give kudos to the organisers. Encouraging younger skills has been a long-term effort from his finish, and it’s clearly paying off,” Adeshina added.
One of many main speaking factors of the match has been its distinctive no-offside rule, a format that has considerably influenced the type of play. In line with Adeshina, the rule has introduced a unique stage of depth and maturity to the competitors.
“It makes the match extra open and encourages hardworking gamers to precise themselves totally and present their energy,” he defined.
He additional emphasised that the Jagaban Cup serves as a vital avenue for rising gamers to showcase their skills on a aggressive stage.
“That is precisely what the platform is supposed for — giving younger skills the chance to indicate what they’ve.”
Following Matchday 1 outcomes, Ikorodu Metropolis FC and 36 Lions FC have emerged as early favourites, having secured victories of their opening fixtures.
Adeshina concluded by reaffirming Lagos’ repute as Nigeria’s soccer hub, stressing that continued administrative assist and structured competitions will additional strengthen the state’s place as a breeding floor for high expertise.
