Organisers of the Eko International Cup (EIC), a prestigious pre‑season tournament in Lagos, have that Accra Hearts of Oak will join Enyimba, Remo Stars, Shooting Stars, Ikorodu City, FC Kallon (Sierra Leone), SuperSport United (South Africa), and Dadje FC (Benin Republic) for the 2025 edition, scheduled for 6–13 July at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan.
As the countdown enters its final month, SKI‑Hi Entertainment and the Lagos State Government have launched roadshows and awareness campaigns—supported by MTN and Bigi Drinks to boost anticipation and commence ticket sales from 6 June.
The EIC promises a vibrant carnival atmosphere while offering participating clubs a platform to test tactics, build fitness, and integrate new signings ahead of the upcoming season.
Editorial
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We celebrate the arrival of Hearts of Oak alongside established Nigerian sides and other African heavyweights. Their participation enriches the tournament, elevates competition, and underscores Lagos’s growing status as West Africa’s pre‑season hub.
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We believe the strategy behind EIC is sound. By staging matches against diverse opponents from Ghana, Benin, Sierra Leone, and South Africa, clubs can simulate continental challenges, sharpen tactical cohesion, and bond through shared experience.
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We feel the fan‑engagement drive signals ambition. One-month roadshows, ticket roll-outs, and corporate backing from MTN and Bigi Drinks point to a genuinely inclusive festival of football one centered on community as much as competition.
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We assert the EIC offers more than warm-up games it’s a stage for regional integration. Nigerian clubs facing continental and domestic rivals under one banner fosters unity and creates scouting opportunities for coaches and players alike.
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We stand convinced the Eko International Cup is more than a tournament it’s a cultural celebration and strategic launching pad. As July approaches, Lagos deserves full stadiums, spirited matches, and renewed local pride.
Did You Know?
Hearts of Oak is the oldest Ghanaian club, founded on 11 November 1911, and won both the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.
Remo Stars became the first privately-owned NPFL champions in 2025, [amassing](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/merchandising-and-branding/end-of-the-road-luton-town-part-ways-with-victor-moses/) 71 points during their title-winning campaign.
Ikorodu City FC finished fourth in their debut NPFL season, becoming the league’s top-scoring side with 60 goals.
Asante Kotoko replaced Hearts of Oak after the latter failed to confirm participation in time—marking the return of Kumasi’s giants
Matches from the EIC will be broadcast live on DStv, providing continental coverage and increased visibility.