Ahmad Emmanuel The Radio Wizard, reporting...
Abuche Friday's late strike confirms Arsenal Fc of Idoji Champions of the 2023 Ènyídúdú Unity Cup Football competition after beating impressive Otite Stars Fc of Otite 0-1 in a mouthwatering final that went down at the Ènyídúdú mini-Stadium Ebogogo, Adavi, Kogi State on Saturday, July 22, 2023.
On a cloudy evening, the organisers of the prestigious football fiesta perfected preparations for a smooth final.
And gradually, fans of both teams and soccer lovers continue to storm the match venue with expectations high.
After proper checks on both teams, the kickoff whistle sounds, and it was Arsenal Fc who set the tone for action.
Otite Stars Fc however started the game like a house on fire, pushing for an early breakthrough.
But they met a strong defense mechanism led by Hamza Ziko, Ahmed Idris Akeke and Kämär Dëëñ Muhammed.
The fans continue to chant in support of their respective teams.
The Otite boys who have been brutal in front of goal en route the final where the highest scoring side: and Coach Momohjimoh Muktar was wary of that.
The first scare for Otite Stars Fc however came in the 7 minutes when Peter heads the ball above his goalie, but thankfully it resulted in a corner kick.
In the 11 minutes, Umar Ibrahim Jr.'s close shot went wide as fans continue to scream.
There were few flashes from both teams, but it was the Coach Shehu Hanifah Mankind's boys who had more chances.
As the game progresses, possession became balanced as the Idoji boys gradually match their opponents from all departments.
Isah Isah who has been in fine form for Otite Stars Fc was the focus of Arsenal Fc defenders as he was well policed.
In the 27 minutes, Seq Dubson almost got something for his side with a powerful drive from a set piece, but Ismail Musa parried the ball away.
Basz Man responded from the other end with an inswinger that beats the goalie, but Peter superbly cleared the ball for a corner kick.
That moment was well cherished by the Idoji fans, giving their team more courage to do more.
First half however ended 0-0 as the center referee, Sammy paved the way for some pep talks and refreshing moment.
During the break, while both technical crews were busy perfecting tactics, popular Kogi ball juggler, Skiddo dazzles with the ball to the delight of the fans.
This was followed by a stage musical performance.
Soon, second half action gets underway, and it was Otite Stars Fc who set the ball rolling.
The Coach Luckyfarms tutored side looked improved than the first half, pressing and counter pressing.
Basz Man missed a glorious opportunity to put his side ahead, firing wide from close range with only the goalkeeper to beat.
In the 59 minutes, Hamza Ziko came to the rescue of Arsenal Fc with a world class timing interception, pulling off a goalbound ball to deny Umar from scoring.
That moment attracted applauds from the spectators, a relieved moment for Luckyfarms.
There were more flashes from the Idoji gunners, but they couldn't put the ball behind the goalie.
Both teams under studied each other before reaching out for options from the bench.
With time ticking fast, it was destined that the substitutions will eventually have a huge impact, but in whose favour; remain the puzzle.
In the 76 minutes, Abuche Friday who has been a super sub for Arsenal Fc once again proved to be the hero.
The utility player shook the net just 7 minutes after coming in as substitute, thanks to a lull moment from Onekata Abdulmalik and the stadium erupted!
That goal will eventually turn out to be the match winner even though the stars tried every trick to get a leveler.
Ismail Musa was at his best to deny Otite Stars Fc from getting the much-needed equaliser, rising high to pull a great save in the 83 minutes.
Arsenal Fc could have made it two in the 85 minutes, but Basz Man failed to hit the target as he fired wide once again from close range.
That moment gave the pride of Otite a little bit of hope to fight harder and they nearly grabbed the equaliser through Ibraheem Ad Ei Za, but his composed attempt went off the bar by few inches.
After 90 plus 6 minutes of added time, Arsenal Fc of Idoji emerged winner.
0-1 final score and it was celebrations galore for the pride of Idoji alongside their teeming fans worldwide.
After the game, it was time to recognise and appreciate some key actors.
Match officials were awesomely rewarded for their efforts.
This was followed by Man of the match award which goes to Ismail Musa of Arsenal Fc who also made it double as the best goalkeeper of the tournament.
The best goal of the tournament award was given to Nazir Enesi of Idozumi United Fc of Idozumi.
The golden boot award was given to Isah Isah of Otite Stars Fc after scoring 9 goals in the competition.
The deadly center forward also walked home with Best Player of the tournament award.
The most disciplined team and Coach award went to Otite Stars Fc and Coach Shehu Hanifah Mankind respectively.
Thereafter, the bronze trophy was handed over to Golden Milan Fc of Ènyídúdú who lost in the semis to the eventual Champions.
Otite Stars Fc picked up the silver trophy for their efforts.
And then, the stage was opened for the new Champions, Arsenal Fc of Idoji who are winning the prestigious trophy for the first time at the Ènyídúdú ground.
Celebrations galore as the Idoji Warriors danced their way home and partied all night long.
We say, congratulations to the latest Champions in town, Arsenal Fc of Idoji, the runners-up, Otite Stars Fc of Otite, the LOC led by Ibajimoh and all the teams that participated in the competition.
In the end, we are all winners.
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