Sporting Lagos Edge Ranchers Bees in NNL Super Four Opener
Sporting Lagos began their 2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) Super Four campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ranchers Bees of Kaduna at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
The Lagos side showed attacking intent from the outset, with Seun Akanji forcing the first real save in the 17th minute.
Despite dominating possession, Sporting Lagos found Ranchers Bees difficult to break down until five minutes before halftime.
A flowing move down the flank saw Shola Oladunjoye link up with Akanji, whose precise cross was met by Alex Leme’s towering header to give Lagos the lead in the 40th minute.
That strike proved decisive as Ranchers Bees pressed for an equaliser in the second half but failed to breach a disciplined Sporting Lagos defence. Goal provider Akanji was named Man of the Match for his creativity and relentless threat, later praising his teammates for their collective effort.
The win sets Sporting Lagos on course in the Super Four, establishing them as early pace-setters in the race for silverware.
The opener drew notable dignitaries, including Chief Sunday Dare, NNL Chairman George Aluo, NFF board member Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, and ex-international Felix Owolabi MON. Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle and assistant Daniel Ogunmodede were also in attendance.
