In a thrilling semifinal clash, Gunners Links FC secured their spot in the final of the 2024 1XBet Cup through a tense penalty shootout victory over Emaljus FC on Thursday in the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Sports247 reports.
The game was tightly contested, with both teams creating chances but unable to break the deadlock as the match finished 0-0 in regular time.
A crucial moment in the game was when Gunners Links were awarded a penalty late in the game, a chance to win the match at regulation time.
However, under immense pressure, Gunners Link, player maker, Abubakar kuburat missed the golden chance by shooting the ball into the sky to stretch the match into the penalty shootout and proceed into the final.
After the match, Gunners Links coach Carika Adefila expressed pride in his team’s performance, stating that the team is focused on winning the trophy .
“It’s the game of soccer; you win some, you lose some. Missing a penalty doesn’t make anyone a bad player. We’re here for nothing but the cup, and that’s our goal—not a dream, but a goal.”
The Gunners Link will now face FC Bethel in the final as Emiloju FC fell to FC Bethel 5-6 in the second Semi final via a Penalty Shootout after a barren regulation time.
The 2024 1X Bet Community Cup started over 10 weeks ago in Lagos and will climax on Thursday 26 September 2024 in the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan Lagos with the third place match between Emiloju FC and Emaljus FC which is slated for 1 pm and the grand final between Gunners Link FC and FC Bethel at 3 pm.