After the elimination of Oska FC by Kaltungo Boys FC in the final playoffs match of the 7th edition of the Adamu Yola Gombe South Unity Cup, all four semifinalists of the 6th edition have failed to qualify for the final round.
Defending champions, Pokwangli United FC were among the early casualties as their hope of retaining the title was shattered after losing 1-0 in their opening game against eventual group winners Highlanders FC of Ture. Despite winning their final game, they lost their final round slot to Highlanders who won two consecutive games.
On the other hand, Kaltungo Boys FC secured their second consecutive appearance in the final round of the competition after eliminating last year finalist Oska FC 1-0 in one of the Kaltungo centre playoff matches.
Both Balanga LGA and Samba Boys FC were unable to make it out of the group stages. They got to the crucial stages last year.
One of the surprised absentees from the final round is Kulishin United from Shongom LGA who were beated in the final round playoffs by Panwa FC of Lalaipido.
As we look forward to an exciting final round of the 7th edition, there may be more upset as we have seen with all semifinalists of the last edition failing to qualify for the final round.
Meanwhile, returnee Kalorgu United FC and Farum United FC will clash in the first game of the final round. Gwandum Academy FC vs Komta United FC and Bare City vs Ayaba United will be among the interesting games to watch as we look forward to the biggest upset of the season.
