By James Agberebi:
The Super Sand Eagles of Nigeria began their 2017 COPA Lagos campaign on Friday with a hard-fought 7-6 comeback win against Morocco in the final game of matchday one at the Eko Atlantic City, Lagos.
The hero for the Nigerians was Emeka Ogbonna who scored a late goal to win the game.
The first period saw both teams tie at 2-2 but after the end of the second period, the Moroccans were ahead 5-4.
The North Africans extended their lead to 6-4 but the Sand Eagles fought back with Abu Azeez making it 6-6.
With the game heading for penalties, it was the Sand Eagles who laughed last thanks to Ogbonna who finished off a brilliant assist from Azeez.
The Sand Eagles will be back in action on Saturday when they will take on Lebanon, while Morocco will face Spain. The Spanish side beat Lebanon 7-3 earlier on Friday.
In the game that preceded the Sand Eagles vs Morocco clash, debutant Gidi Sharks also made a winning start as they trounced Pepsi Football Academy 6-2.
COPA Lagos: Sand Eagles Edge Morocco, Gidi Sharks Outclass Pepsi Academy
