Grassrunners FC have been crowned champions of the 14th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup after defeating Abakaliki FC 3-0 in a commanding final.
The Grassrunners victory was sealed through an own goal by Hamzat Sheriff, a strike from Temileyin Adelabu, and a late goal from Lasisi Musa as the 10-day pre-season football tournament came to an exciting conclusion.
The final started cautiously, with both teams unable to break the deadlock during a goalless first half. However, the game came alive shortly after the restart.
Just two minutes into the second half, Hamzat Sheriff inadvertently turned the ball into his own net to hand Grassrunners FC a 1-0 lead.
Abakaliki FC goalkeeper Okoa Chizoba then produced an excellent save in the 58th minute to deny Grassrunners a second goal after Nwose Emmanuel delivered a dangerous cross.
Abakaliki FC responded with two quick opportunities in the 60th minute, but Grassrunners goalkeeper Gideon Nwanzi stood firm, making two crucial saves to preserve his side’s advantage.
Abakaliki FC responded with two quick opportunities in the 60th minute, but Grassrunners goalkeeper Gideon Nwanzi stood firm, making two crucial saves to preserve his side’s advantage.
Grassrunners eventually doubled their lead in the 70th minute when Temileyin Adelabu found the back of the net, moving his team closer to their first official trophy.
With Abakaliki FC unable to find a way back into the contest, Lasisi Musa delivered the final blow in stoppage time with a stunning strike to complete a 3-0 victory.
The result confirmed Grassrunners FC as the 2026 Ogunjobi Gold Cup champions, bringing the 14th edition of the prestigious pre-season tournament to a memorable close.
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