An official of 1X Bet Cup defending champions, Somolu Bariga FC, Alebi Omotoyosi has declared that the team is determined to win the competition again this year.
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Speaking after the draw ceremony for this year’s competition in Lagos, Omotoyosi told sports247.ng that the champions have put everything in place to ensure that they get an encore at the end of the contest next month.
With the prize money now expanded to N20m in total, Omotoyosi stressed that the club’s players, coaches and officials are inspired to go for the top spot once again.
This is in spite of many observers reckoning that the holders are in a tough zone; as they were drawn into Group B alongside vastly exposed Lagos-based trio of Collins Edwin FC, Team 360 FC and Dosu Joseph Football Academy, as well as giant killing Ilupeju-Ekiti Pillars from Ekiti State.
Rather than feel cowed by the draw, Omotoyosi declared: “We are the winners of 1X Bet Cup last year, and we are sure that we are going to be the winners this year as well.”
The amiable football zealot, who prides herself as the only vibrant female official in the midst of many capable men, also spoke about the factors that led her side to victory last year.
She further told sports247.ng that the spirit of unity was their biggest asset, which they will again flaunt this year, in order to retain the title.
“We were able to win the cup because our communication was so good. We understand ourselves very well in all areas of football.
“Though it was our first time in a big competition, we tried our very best.
“We positioned ourselves, gave all attention to our coach and our chairman kept on pushing the team forward. They encourage the players to try harder, and they understand one another.
“Once you are in a team where you understand yourselves, communication is good, and no one sees himself as a mighty person taking all the decisions alone, you will all go places.”
Omotoyosi conconcluded with her assessment of the contest itself, adding: “It is a wonderful and fabulous competition.
“They tried last year, and now they are doing better. Last year was N1m, and this year, it’s now N20m.
“They are really, really trying, and their aim is to promote young footballers. They want to encourage young players and ensure that they can reach their goals.”
She expressed hope that Somolu Bariga FC will again have the last and best laugh in the competition pioneered by former Super Eagles’ defender and ex-chairnan of Lagos State Football Association, Waheed Akanni.
