IX Bet Cup 2026: Africano FC eye winning start against Mido Saka FA

Posted : 12 August 2026

Africano FC will be aiming to make a strong statement when they face Mido Saka FA in their opening fixture of the 2026 IX Bet Cup on Friday, Aug. 14, with the club intensifying preparations for the encounter.

The match is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. at the Inspire Sports Arena (NITEL) ground, Oshodi, Lagos, where Africano FC will begin their second appearance in the grassroots competition.

Determined to improve on their performance from last year's edition, the Brazilian-affiliated club has stepped up its training programme at the NPA Ground, Bode Thomas, Surulere, under the supervision of its technical crew.

The club has also used a series of friendly matches to assess the readiness of the players, with their latest outing providing an encouraging sign ahead of Friday's encounter.

Africano FC defeated experienced Edwin Collins FC 3-1 in a friendly played last Friday at the Legacy Pitch of the National Stadium, Surulere.

The victory came after an impressive all-round performance, with Africano FC dominating proceedings and demonstrating the attacking quality and discipline they will need in the IX Bet Cup.

The club has so far played 11 friendly matches in 2026, recording two wins, seven draws and two defeats.

With the tournament offering another opportunity for the players to gain competitive experience and attract attention, the club's management is expecting the team to translate its preparation into a positive result against Mido Saka FA.

Club President, Rev. Ambassador Samuel Ikpea, has therefore charged the players to approach the match with determination and go for the available three points.

Ikpea, who is also the National Chairman of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, said participation in the competition would help keep the players in good shape for future engagements.

“I’m happy with the performance exhibited by the team last Friday, and that’s what I expect them to do when they confront Mido Saka FA.

“I believe that they have the quality to win that match and progress to the next stage of the competition,” he said.

Africano FC will now look to combine their recent friendly-match confidence with the tactical work done in training when they step onto the pitch on Friday, with victory their immediate target.

IX Bet Cup 2026: Africano FC eye winning start against Mido Saka FA

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