Local News
JOF U-13 Cup Championship: Quarter Finalists Emerged As Sponsor Plans Elaborate Final Ceremony
The Round of 16 matches in the ongoing 2024 JOF U-13 Football Championship were concluded at the weekend with results showing teams that have qualified for the quarter-finals of the grassroots sports competition.
The weekend matches were decided at two centres, Oshodi and Lekki playgrounds. At Oshodi Centre, Latoyam FC from Coker beat Arsenal Academy, Alimosho 4-3 with penalties after they had played a barren draw in the regulation time. Young Boys from Ojo got the best out of Orelope FC of Ajah in a 4-2 scoreline.
Zamadek from Lagos Island also qualified after beating Ultimate Villa of Ikorodu in an easy ride game that ended 3-0. Amezon Boys of Ikoyi won their penalty against Omo Babes 4-3 after the game ended 2-2 draw in regulation time.
At Lekki centre, Strong Dove from Orile Iganmu claimed victory over Adamu Boys of Idi Araba with a 1-0 win. Ajiran Boys lost 3-2 to Solution Babes from Apapa.
Botife Babes from Abule Egba were too much for Ikosi Babes from Ketu as they defeated their opponents 2-1. HB Utility from Ilupeju had a narrow win over Yinka Academy of Badagry in a 1-0 game.
The competition, which enters its 5th edition this year, is solely sponsored by JOF Nigeria Limited, a manufacturing company and supply chain service provider based in Lagos State.
The sponsor, JOF Nigeria Limited, is planning a glamourous final ceremony which will be held in May at a more conducive venue outside the usual Campos Mini Stadium on Lagos Island where the four previous final ceremonies had been held.
QUARTERFINAL TEAMS
HB Utility
Botife Babes
Solution Babes
Strong Dove
Amezon Boys
Zamadek
Young Boys
Latoyam FC
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World Cup 202614 hours ago**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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