Defending Champions Gbagada Book Semifinal Spot

Match Officials

Ref: Sowunmi Matthew

AR1: Ayeyun Samuel

AR2: Coker Kehinde

RR: Kolawole Babatunde

Gbagada FC were forced to a 2-2 draw by Broad City FC as group A action came to an end on Friday at the Remo Stars Stadium.

The defending champions needed just a point to qualify for the next stage of the competition, while the God’s Own team were in dire need of a win after losing to Imperial last time out.

From the get go, it was Gbagada who showed intent of reaching the next round as they went in front through Ademola Akibu in the 8th minute, but that lead didn’t last long as Joseph Mario restored parity for Ikechukwu Christian’s side two minutes later.

The Blue Eagles kept creating chances and were duly rewarded through Balogun Wasiu’s headed goal on the half-hour mark to regain the lead. That scoreline stayed the same till the halftime break.

Just seven minutes from the interval, the men in blue restored parity again as substitute Kassim Shobanke bundled home. Consequently, that goal set up a frantic finish to the game.

However, Gbagada stood strong and claimed the needed point to book their place in the semifinals. Meanwhile, it was a disappointing end to the tournament for Broad City who had won their opening two games.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Ahmed Adesanu (Broad City)

Although his side failed to win, Ahmed was crucial in the fight back and the MOTM was a consolation for his wonderful performance.