Arise & Shine FC prevailed 6-5 in a penalty shootout against FA Victory on the first day of the 2026 Sen. Oluremi Tinubu/APC Unity Cup, with Simario FA and Brighton FC also recording opening-day victories.

The tournament got under way on Monday at the Ikorodu DFA and is sponsored by former footballer and former Surulere Local Government Chairman, Hon. Taju Ajide.

Simario FA began the competition by edging Shola FC 1-0, staying composed in a closely contested encounter to secure the first three points.

Brighton FC then defeated Yomaraz FA 2-1 in the second fixture. Although Yomaraz mounted a response, Brighton proved more efficient with their finishing.

The day’s most dramatic contest came in the third game, as FA Victory and Arise & Shine finished level at 2-2 in normal time. Arise & Shine eventually claimed victory by a 6-5 margin in the shootout.

In the Badagry DFA opening fixture at Alapa Mini Stadium, Fast Lane and Rivas FC played out a 2-2 draw.

Action returns to the Ikorodu DFA on Wednesday, when Leader FA play Cottage FC, Rebirth Sport FA face Comfort Edge FC, and Iziag FC meet St. Charles Athletic FC.

A total of 80 grassroots sides from the five Lagos State DFAs are taking part in the competition.