Defending champion, Comet Shipping Agencies started on a good note with a 2-0 victory over Dangote Ports Operation in the opening match of the 15th Edition of Maritime Cup 2025.
The much anticipated event, now in its 15th edition, brings together government agencies and private sector operators in a friendly but fiercely contested football competition that celebrates unity and teamwork within the maritime community.
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The defending champions Comet is drawn in Group A alongside Dangote Ports Operation, Papa Bulk Terminal Limited, Micura Stevedoring Services and National Inland Waterways Authority.
Both teams have a positive start in the first half with some slim chances not well utilised by both forwards as the first half ended goalless.
Coach Gabriel Popoola of Comet brought on substitutes for more impetus and their efforts were rewarded with a long range shot from Stephen to push for the lead. Stephen’s search for a brace ended up denied by the woodwork few minutes later. Emeka Chocho scored the second with a header from a well taken corner kick, sending the ball to the top right corner past the goalkeeper Ogbebor Moses.
With several errors from the defending champion goalkeeper, Ismaila Isah, the away side couldn’t smashed in from close range.
Coach Gbenga’s post match interview with Sports247, appreciates the organisers and extend his feelings to the first win and the mission toward a back to back champion.
“Thank God for the organisation, we really appreciate what they did- this is surely a good competition. We’ve got ourselve prepared as this edition won’t be easy, every team will be coming for us”
“Winning our first game showed how prepared we are to defend the little, we will consolidate on that performance in our next game”
Responding to the five-time champions Nigeria Custom Services challenge in a possible pairing in the knockout stages, ‘he said’
“Five time champion is likely a nation playing against Brazil, they have good player, management supports and good coach as well. We don’t play against the names, we will prepare ourselves readily for them. Hopefully in the semi-final or the final, we will see what happens then.”
Furthermore, the experienced retired footballer who has played in Malaysia, Russia and India advised the organisers to push the competition to the international level where different Ships and Ports in Africa can compete.
Comet will face National Inland Waterways Authority (NIRWA) in their next game on the 7th of November, 2025 at the NPA Sports Ground.
