RESILIENT VESA WRAPPED UP SSAN IN A THRILLING ENCOUNTER

VESA secured a narrow 1-0 victory over SSAN in a tightly contested match that saw both teams adopt a cautious approach, particularly in the early stages. 

The match began with both sides being conservative, focusing their play primarily in the midfield. In an unusual early incident, VESA’s Diyaolu Qudus and Ogunronbi Tunde both received yellow cards in the 5th minute after returning to the field without the referee’s consent, having removed their undershorts. Adebayo Kabir was also booked in the 11th minute for a foul on an SSAN player, adding to VESA’s growing disciplinary concerns.

Despite these early bookings, clear chances were few and far between in the first half. Both goalkeepers, Idowu Opeoluwa of SSAN and his VESA counterpart, were rarely tested, as the teams struggled to create meaningful opportunities. The rain that began towards the end of the first half further hampered play, forcing both teams to remain cautious. 

The second half continued in much the same fashion, with physical battles and defenders clearing their lines under pressure. VESA captain Oderinde Afeez was shown a yellow card in the 43rd minute for a foul, as the match became increasingly scrappy.

The decisive moment came in the 48th minute when an SSAN defender misplayed a pass deep in their half, gifting the ball to VESA’s Iye Terungwa. Terungwa took full advantage, calmly slotting the ball past a helpless Idowu Opeoluwa to give VESA the lead.

SSAN pushed hard for an equalizer, controlling possession for most of the second half and coming close when they struck the upright. However, they were unable to break down VESA’s defense, who held firm until the final whistle. The match ended 1-0 in favor of VESA, with Iye Terungwa named Man of the Match for his composed finish and overall contribution. 

VESA will now look to continue their momentum when they face SECPANE on Wednesday, 9th September 2024, while SSAN must win their final group game against SECPANE tomorrow, 8th September 2024, to keep their hopes alive.

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