In a tightly contested encounter, FC Ebedei handed newly-promoted Nigeria Premier Football League side Ikorodu City a reality check, holding on to a 1-0 victory in the ongoing Optima Energy Gold Cup preseason tournament on Sunday at the FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu.
The match was a thrilling affair, with both teams constantly pressing each other, creating an end-to-end battle. The breakthrough came in the 13th minute when the Oliseh Boys took an unexpected but deserved lead. A deflected shot from Ikechukwu Ologun found its way past the Ikorodu City goalkeeper, putting FC Ebedei ahead.
Ikorodu City responded almost immediately, coming close to equalizing ten minutes later. Tosin Oyedokun, after skillfully evading his marker, unleashed a powerful long-range shot that rattled the woodwork, leaving the crowd gasping but ultimately resulting in a goal kick.
The second half saw Ikorodu City intensify their efforts in search of an equalizer. Their best chance came in the 57th minute when Solomon Emmanuel outmaneuvered his opponent and delivered a precise pass to Adebayo Adewale. The right-back’s inviting low cross found Tosin Oyedokun in a promising position, but his final attempt went agonizingly wide of the target.
As the match drew to a close, both goalkeepers showcased their talents, producing a series of top-class saves that kept the scoreline unchanged. FC Ebedei’s defense, marshaled with determination, successfully neutralized Ikorodu City’s attacking threats in the dying moments of the game.
Reflecting on the match, a relieved FC Ebedei coach commented, “It was a tough game, but the boys showed character and resilience. We knew Ikorodu City would be a challenge, and we’re happy to have secured the win.”
FC Ebedei now prepares to face Shooting Stars in a crucial Group B clash, with a spot in the Optima Energy Gold Cup semi-final at stake. Meanwhile, Ikorodu City will look to regroup and bounce back in their next fixture.
