Matchday 2 of the 5th edition of the Prof Akin Oyebode Cup promises even more intensity after an eventful opening round filled with goals and upsets. Teams now face critical fixtures that could either revive their campaigns or end their hopes of advancing.
The matches will be played on Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 August at Ikole Township Stadium.
In Group A, Emure opens the day’s action against Ekiti East. Both sides suffered defeats in their first matches, making a win essential for either team to keep their qualification hopes alive. Meanwhile, Ijero and Ekiti West, both sitting on three points, clash in a high-stakes encounter where victory would virtually secure a place in the next round for the winner.
Group B features one of the standout matches of the matchday as former champions Oye face a familiar rival. The two sides last met in the final, where Irepodun/Ifelodun claimed their first title. Oye, who dropped points in a draw against Moba, must now take matters into their own hands to stand a chance of progressing. Moba, who began their campaign with that draw against Oye, will look to seal their spot when they take on Ido Osi.
Group C remains tightly poised. Ikole enter their clash against Gbonyin with confidence after the latter’s dramatic loss to Ikere. A defeat for Gbonyin, one of the competition favourites, would see them fail to advance—an outcome that cannot be ruled out. Ikere, for their part, will aim to confirm their place in the next round when they face Ise Orun.
In Group D, the competition is equally fierce. Ekiti Southwest impressed on opening day but must now overcome Efon, who defeated Ado, to book their progression. For two-time winners Ado, the challenge is clear: bounce back against Ilejemeje or see their campaign come to an abrupt end with another defeat.
With plenty still to play for and calculations to be made across all groups, Matchday 2 of the Prof Akin Oyebode Cup is set to deliver more drama when the action resumes on Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 August at Ikole Township Stadium.
