LOSU Blazers open title defense with 4-1 victory over FCE Akoka

Defending champions Lagos State University Blazers sent a strong message to their university rivals after recording a resounding 4-1 victory over Federal College of Education Akoka in their first match of the UNITECOL Cup 2026.

The entertaining match, played on Monday at the main stadium of the University of Lagos, showcased the attacking quality and championship mentality of the LASU Blazers, who dominated possession and dictated the pace of play from the opening whistle.

From midfield control to fluid attacking transitions, the defending champions looked composed throughout the first half as they pinned FCE Akoka deep in their defensive box.

LASU’s early pressure finally paid off in the 27th minute, when captain Ahmed Malik launched a dangerous corner kick that found Jeremiah Chukwuwa, who rose above the defenders to head in and break the deadlock.

The goal further boosted LASU’s confidence as they continued to pressure their opponents with combinations of quick passing and aggressive movement in the final third.

Just six minutes later, Aderoju Adebowale doubled the lead in the 33rd minute after taking advantage of another well-worked attacking play to give the Blazers complete control heading into halftime.

The second half, however, produced a spirited response from FCE Akoka, who returned from the break with renewed intensity and determination.

Their persistence paid off in the 55th minute, when Fawaz converted a penalty to reduce the deficit and briefly spark hopes of a comeback.

The goal temporarily shifted the momentum in favor of Akoka’s team, which moved forward in search of another goal to even the score.

But the experience and composure of the defending champions soon resurfaced.

In the 68th minute, Oluwaseyi Adeleke restored LASU’s two-goal lead with a stunning long-range shot from outside the 18-yard box, causing the crowd to celebrate as the ball flew into the back of the net.

The goal reignited LASU’s offensive dominance, with the Blazers creating several opportunities while relentlessly pushing for more goals.

Their attacking pressure eventually resulted in a penalty kick late in the game, and Jeremiah Chukwuwa coolly converted from the spot to seal his double and complete a resounding 4-1 victory for the defending champions.

The convincing victory sends LASU Blazers to the top of Group A and reinforces their ambition to successfully defend the UNITECOL Cup title.