The second edition of the Lagos Ex-Internationals Cup kicked off in electrifying fashion on Tuesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, with FC Giwa delivering a resounding 5-2 victory over FC Temile in the first leg of their Round of 32 clash, Naija Footy reports.
Hosted by the Lagos State Football Association, the match offered a thrilling spectacle from the start as both teams came out with attacking intent, much to the delight of fans at the storied venue. FC Temile began on the front foot, creating early chances, but FC Giwa gradually found their rhythm and took control with incisive attacking play.
The deadlock was broken in the 32nd minute when Bright Nkwocha capitalized on a well-crafted attacking move to slot the ball home from close range. The goal injected momentum into FC Giwa’s performance, and Nkwocha doubled his tally shortly after, putting his team firmly in command heading into halftime.
FC Giwa carried their dominance into the second half, extending their lead with a goal from Adigun Damilare, who finished off a swift attacking sequence. At this point, the match appeared beyond reach for FC Temile as their opponents controlled possession and dictated the pace with fluid attacking football.
Despite trailing, FC Temile showed resilience and sprang into action through Umeh Collins, who punished a defensive lapse to pull one back. Moments later, he scored again to narrow the gap and briefly reignite hopes of an unlikely comeback.
As FC Temile threw caution to the wind in search of another goal, FC Giwa capitalized on the spaces left behind. Muritala Olorunlomoshe added two late strikes to seal an emphatic win and underline their dominance. The 5-2 triumph gives FC Giwa a strong advantage heading into the return leg as they pursue glory in the 2026 Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup.
Other Results:
Elsewhere, FC Ipaye showcased their attacking prowess with a solid 3-1 win against FC Ekpo, boosting their chances of advancing to the next round. The team displayed great control throughout the tie.
FC Babington managed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over FC Dosu in a tightly contested encounter. With only a slim margin separating the teams, the second leg promises to be open, as both sides remain optimistic about their chances.
In another close match-up, FC Omoruyi edged past FC Oguntuase 1-0 in a game decided by a single goal. While FC Oguntuase fell short in the first leg, they are still within striking distance and will aim to overturn the deficit in the return fixture.
As the first-leg matches wrap up, focus now shifts to the decisive return games, where teams will continue their fight for spots in the next round of this prestigious tournament.
