Sporting Lagos’ Promotion Highlights Impact of Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament

Sporting Lagos’ Promotion Highlights Impact of Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament

By Niyi Busari 

Organisers of the Gold Cup pre-season tournament have congratulated Sporting Lagos on their promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), following a successful campaign in the Nigeria National League (NNL).

Sporting Lagos secured their top-flight status after defeating Osun United in their final league fixture at the Lanreleke Township Stadium in Ileogbo. The decisive moment came in the 17th minute when Alex Leme found the back of the net, sealing a crucial victory for his side.

The win ensured Sporting Lagos finished top of Conference B with 36 points from 18 matches, capping an impressive season under head coach Jeffrey Butler.

In a statement released on Thursday, Tunde Shamsudeen, General Coordinator of the Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament, praised the club’s achievement and highlighted the role of the competition in their development.

He noted that Sporting Lagos, current champions of the Gold Cup, have consistently used the pre-season platform to evaluate their squad, with both appearances preceding successful promotion campaigns to the NPFL.

Shamsudeen attributed the club’s success to the collective efforts of the coaching crew, players, and management, commending the leadership of Butler and the administrative structure led by Godwin Enakhena.

He also acknowledged the support of club co-founder and Paystack CEO, Shola Akinlade, describing his contribution as instrumental to the team’s progress.