Nigeria National League side Ikorodu City FC are eager to claim their first major title in just one year of existence, having reached the final of the 2023 Lagos State FA Cup where they will meet Smart City FC. The Oga Boys earned their place by defeating Box‑to‑Box FC 4‑3 on penalties after a goalless draw in the semi‑finals. Smart City secured their spot by beating Future Pros 1‑0 in the other semi‑final, setting up an exciting showdown with Ikorodu City.
After a quarter‑final loss to MFM FC last season, Ikorodu City have enjoyed a remarkable run in this year’s competition, overcoming Dannaz FC 3‑0 in the quarter‑finals and Divine Praise 3‑0 in the round of 16. Head coach Sadiq Dabiri was jubilant after the semi‑final victory, emphasizing the team’s determination to make history. “We respect all opponents—there is no small team out there—but when we step onto the field we know how to achieve our aim,” Dabiri said. “We are preparing hard, the players want to win, and we know what we want. We want to win the State FA Cup and we are doing everything we can, aware of the calibre of our opponents. It’s a team we know very well too.”
Reaching the final not only offers Ikorodu City a chance to lift a major state trophy, but also marks another milestone: qualification for the 2023 Aiteo Cup. This will give the club an opportunity to compete against teams from across the country for a coveted CAF Confederation Cup ticket.
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