Sporting Lagos v Valiant

Two teams with contrasting fortunes open up their Cup campaign in pursuit of different targets seemingly. Sporting Lagos have taken to TCC like duck to water, bouncing back from opening defeat in the league with resounding league performances. 

The Cup is a different prospect, with only four games to determine whether you progress. There are no margins for error. Valiant are one time semifinalists and after failing to win any of their first three league games, the Cup provides a perfect respite.

MAN TO WATCH

Adio Ojora (Sporting) 

He’s the top scorer in the TCC League this term and could be dangerous in this fixture. 

Beyond Limits vs Gbagada

The two sides that prosecuted the first ever Cup final faceoff in the Group stages. Gbagada have Beyond Limits’ number in the Cup, and after a bright start to the league season, they would hope to rub it in for the Sky Blues, who have surprisingly picked up 4 points from a possible 9, their least tally at this stage of any TCC campaign.

Every Clasico has its taste, and this would be no different. Whether Pep or Mourinho takes the cake, only ninety minutes in the sun’s bake decides who is as brittle as a flake. 

MAN TO WATCH

Onyebuchi Obasi (Beyond Limits)

He doesn’t score a lot of goals but his direct play, trickery and pace can unlock any defence for BYL. So, eyes should be on him.

Iganmu v Broad City

The Iganmu Tigers will look to put a winless start to the season behind them when they face a buoyant Broad City. The away side have a tough record against the Tigers, having failed to beat them over two legs last season in the league. Iganmu have shown themselves profligate this season, unable to convert possession to goals, however, this provides ample respite.

Form may be temporary, but Broad City need to make a serious statement in the Cup this season. They faded away after a promising start last season, and all eyes will be on them. A win could as well pave the broad road to the final, a defeat, and that journey becomes narrower. 

MAN TO WATCH

Agbalaka Solomon (Broad City)

The versatile player has been key for Broad City this term and his performance could be vital in this game.

Imperial v Dannaz

Last season’s Cup semi finalists have bounced back from a sluggish start, however, Imperial’s next jump is of curious nature to every TCC fan. Rock bottom and early homers in the first season, they improved markedly last season, running Beyond Limits close in the Cup semifinals, a base that proved crucial in securing a top half league finish. The Cup is special to Imperial, and this the litmus test of whether they can make another marked jump.

The Cedars are proving to be one of TCC’s inconsistent sides. Capable of the good, bad and ugly. All eyes are on their Cup assault, and whether they can progress all stems from the ability to imperiously impose themselves from the go. 

MAN TO WATCH

Chidera Ezeno (Imperial)

The forward opened his account at the weekend and could pounce once more in front of the home fans in this contest.