MATCH 2: DR R.A. SOYELE COMMUNITY 5 A-SIDE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: NCE BOYS TRIUMPHS OVER STAFF MEN TO SECURE FINAL SPOT

The game, which kicked off at approximately 5:11 PM, saw moments of brilliance, resilience, and tactical discipline as the teams battled for a place in the final. The match began with high energy, with both teams looking to assert control. The opening stages were not without controversy, as Alonge Kayode found himself on the receiving end of a rash challenge. However, it was the NCE team that struck first, with Adebayo Boluwatife finding the back of the net in the 7th minute after a well-executed move.

Undeterred by the early setback, the Staff team pressed forward in search of an equalizer. Their persistence paid off when Toba was brought down on the penalty line after a beautiful solo run, winning a crucial spot-kick. The forward showed composure, stepping up and converting from six yards to bring his team level.The NCE team responded with a wave of attacks and created several scoring opportunities, but they were repeatedly denied by Ebuka Osuji, the Staff team’s goalkeeper, who made a series of crucial saves to ensure the score remained 1-1 at halftime.

The NCE team resumed the second half with renewed intensity, picking up where they left off. Their sustained pressure eventually paid off in the 30th minute when Lawal Aleem finished off a brilliant team move, involving all NCE outfield players, to restore his team’s lead. The Staff team fought valiantly to overturn the deficit, but despite their attacking efforts, they could not break through the NCE defense. Their frustration showed in their discipline, as they accumulated five fouls in the second half compared to four in the first. The NCE team, on the other hand, did not fair much better committing four fouls in both halves. For his outstanding contributions on both ends of the pitch, Najeem Samad was named Man of the Match, having played a key role in both attack and defense. Both teams finished the game with a yellow card each in what was a competitive yet disciplined contest.

With no further goals, the match ended 2-1 in favor of the NCE team, securing them a spot in the final against CUDEP on February 14, 2025. The Staff team, despite their spirited effort, will now shift focus to the third-place playoff against LASU on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.