The Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) has handed down severe disciplinary sanctions following incidents of violence and misconduct during the Round of 16 of the 2026 Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup.
In a statement issued after Friday’s matches, the LSFA announced the immediate expulsion of FC Omoruyi and FC Obafemi from the competition after violent clashes involving supporters of both clubs forced the abandonment of their second-leg encounter in the 80th minute.
According to the organisers, preliminary investigations revealed that the unrest was instigated by fans of both teams rather than the match officials, who were neither attacked nor threatened during the incident.
As a result, both FC Omoruyi and FC Obafemi have been banned from participating in the Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup for the next three years in line with Article 4 of the tournament’s framework.
The Association also sanctioned FC Dominic with a two-year suspension after officials found the team responsible for instructing its players to walk off the pitch following a penalty decision in favour of FC Babington during their match at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.
Meanwhile, the Organising Committee issued a stern warning to FC Nieketien following reports of repeated calls urging the referee to “open the match” during its Round of 16 fixture against FC Udeze at Navy Barracks, Ajegunle. Although no further disciplinary action was taken, the LSFA cautioned that any future attempts to intimidate match officials or incite spectators would attract severe sanctions.
The Association reiterated that the Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup was established to unite Nigerian football legends while mentoring the next generation of players in an atmosphere of friendship, discipline, respect and fair play.
The LSFA further reminded all participating ex-internationals that they are ambassadors of Nigerian football whose conduct on and off the pitch should reflect the values they displayed throughout their playing careers.
The organisers also stressed that the continued support of the Bet9ja Foundation depends on maintaining high organisational standards, discipline, and a positive image for the competition, warning that acts of violence and misconduct could jeopardise future sponsorship.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the integrity of the tournament, the Lagos State Football Association vowed to continue enforcing strict disciplinary measures against any individual or team whose actions threaten the values of football excellence, unity, respect and fair play.