Organisers pick Sept. 22 for Optima Energy Gold Cup kickoff in Ikenne, Sagamu

[FILES] Football (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP)

Organisers of the Optima Energy Gold Cup have revealed that Remo Stars will begin their title defence of the preseason tournament for domestic leagues’ clubs on September 22, 2022.

Speaking on its 10th edition, General Coordinator of the tourney, Tunde Shamsudeen, said: “We want to use this medium to thank the over 30 different clubs, which cut across the three tiers of our league, that have taken part in the Ogunjobi Gold Cup (now Optima Energy Gold Cup).

“The tournament, began in 2012, has proven to be the best platform for teams to prepare extensively against tough teams, know their strengths, drawbacks and proffer solutions to them before going into the season.

“Also, the Optima Energy Gold Cup over the years has been part of some club’s success stories, including former NPFL champions, Kano Pillars, Lobi Stars, MFM FC, Niger Tornadoes, FC Ebedei and now Remo Stars.

“It’s on record that one or two teams that participate in the yearly tourney, either end up winning the NPFL title, qualify for CAF inter-club tournament or gain promotion. 

“As we set the ball rolling for this year’s edition, it promises to be an exciting one for the 10 teams that will be looking forward to taking part and indeed fans.

“All necessary arrangement and logistics has been put in place to ensure a hitch-free tourney as there will be much fanfare and activation.”

He said the tournament would hold at the Remo Stars Stadium and FC Ebedei Stadium in Ikenne and Sagamu, adding that official invitation letters have been sent to intending clubs in the three tiers of the domestic leagues, including Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), Nigeria National League (NNL) and Nationwide League One (NLO).

“Ten teams