Katsina United and Rivers United secured their spots in the Naija Super Eight finals with impressive victories in their respective zonal play-off matches.
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Katsina United emerged victorious in a tightly contested battle against Kano Pillars, clinching a 1-0 win to claim the North-West ticket.
Rivers United, on the other hand, faced a thrilling encounter against Bendel Insurance, ultimately triumphing with a 3-2 victory to secure the South-South geo-political zone ticket.
In the clash between Katsina United and Kano Pillars, both teams fought fiercely throughout the match. The first half remained goalless, with Kano Pillars coming close to scoring in the ninth minute. However, Katsina United’s goalkeeper, Kolimba Alladoom, showcased his skills by denying Kano Pillars’ Kokoette Udoh. Katsina United responded with an impressive volley from Yahaya Nazifi, but Joshua Enaholo in Pillars’ goal made a brilliant save. The experienced midfielder, Rabiu Ali, also attempted a long-range freekick, but Enaholo handled it well. Despite the pressure, it was not until the 84th minute that Katsina United broke the deadlock, with Samson Souley capitalizing on a poorly set offside trap to score the decisive goal.
The encounter between Rivers United and Bendel Insurance proved to be a thrilling five-goal spectacle. Albert Korvah opened the scoring for Rivers United in the 10th minute, but Bendel Insurance equalized from the penalty spot through Monghara Dede just before halftime. Early in the second half, Korvah struck again, tapping home from close range after a fluid passing move. Rivers United had opportunities to extend their lead but failed to convert them. In the 70th minute, substitute Okon Ini-Obong scored a superb volley to level the score. However, in the dying moments of the match, Rivers United was awarded a penalty, which Maurice Chukwu calmly converted, securing the victory for his team.
With Katsina United, Lobi Stars, Enyimba, Remo Stars, Yobe Desert Stars, and Rivers United emerging as zonal champions, the remaining two wildcard teams for the Naija Super Eight finals will be chosen by the tournament organizers. The draws for the finals will be broadcasted live on SuperSport on June 29, and the tournament itself will commence on July 7 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, culminating on July 16.
The Naija Super Eight tournament, organized by Flykite Productions in partnership with MultiChoice Nigeria, and sponsored by MTN, Hero Lager, DStv, GOtv, SuperSport, Moniepoint, Pepsi, and Custodian Assurance, promises to be a thrilling showcase of Nigerian football talent.
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