Get Guardian on GoogleThe opening day of the 2026 Sen. Oluremi Tinubu-APC Unity Cup delivered thrilling football action, with Arise & Shine FC emerging victorious in a dramatic penalty shootout, while Simario FA and Brighton FC secured hard-fought victories in their respective encounters.
The competition, bankrolled by ex-footballer and former Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Taju Ajide, kicked off on Monday from the Ikorodu DFA with exciting displays of football, determination and resilience as participating teams battled for supremacy.
Simario FA also began their campaign on a winning note, edging Shola FC 1-0 in the opening match of the tournament.
The closely contested encounter saw Simario FA hold their nerve to secure a narrow victory, handing Shola FC an early setback in the competition.
The result provided Simario FA with a valuable three points and a confidence boost as the tournament progressed.
In another match, Brighton FC also made a strong statement on the opening day, defeating Yomaraz FA 2-1 in an entertaining second match.
Both sides produced an engaging contest, but Brighton FC proved more clinical in front of goal to claim the maximum points.
Yomaraz FA fought back but could not prevent Brighton FC from securing a deserved victory.
The third match of the day provided the biggest drama of the day, as FA Victory and Arise & Shine FC played out an entertaining 2-2 draw before the latter emerged victorious in a penalty shootout.
Both teams demonstrated attacking intent and determination throughout regulation time, refusing to surrender as the contest remained finely balanced.
With neither side able to establish a decisive advantage, the match proceeded to penalties, where Arise & Shine FC held their nerve to secure a 6-5 victory.
The shootout victory handed Arise & Shine FC a memorable triumph, while FA Victory Ones were left to rue their missed opportunity after an impressive performance.
At the Badagry DFA, Fast Lane and Rivas FC kicked off the tournament at the Alapa Mini Stadium with the match ending 2-2 at regulation time.
Attention now shifts to Wednesday matches at the Ikorodu DFA zone as Leader FA take on Cottage FC. Rebirth Sport FA will confront Comfort Edge FC, while the final match of the day is between Iziag FC vs St. Charles Athletic FC.
Eighty grassroots football teams are vying for honours from the five DFAs of Lagos State.
