An esteemed Nigerian football manager and former national player, Henry Ojemanzi Nwosu (MON) expressed his admiration for the competition and the players’ performance.
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FC Nwosu edged out FC Amoo in an 11-10 penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regular time. The match, part of the tournament’s inaugural edition, highlighted the enduring talent and passion for football in Nigeria.
“I’m impressed with what I’ve seen. The two matches I’ve watched, including today’s, have showcased the incredible talent we have in this country,” Nwosu stated. “The discipline on display, despite the fans’ attempts to cause disruptions, was commendable. Both teams maintained their focus and played with integrity.”
The game itself was a showcase of skill and resilience. FC Nwosu initially took the lead, only for FC Amoo to fight back and equalize, leading to a dramatic penalty shootout. FC Nwosu’s calm and precise execution in the shootout ultimately secured their victory, advancing them to the next stage of the tournament.
Nwosu also commended the tournament organizers for their efforts in bringing the event to life. “This is the first edition, and it’s very promising. I hope the organizers will continue to build on this foundation, providing more opportunities for young talents to shine,” he remarked.
Looking to the future, Henry Nwosu expressed optimism about the tournament’s potential to expand. “With the quality we’ve seen today, this competition can certainly grow from a regional to a national level,” he said.
Offering advice to the players, Henry Nwosuemphasized the importance of discipline. “Stay disciplined, focus on your game, and play with integrity. Indiscipline will only hold you back,” he advised.
The Ex-International Cup is proving to be a significant platform for showcasing Nigeria’s football talent, with memorable matches and the promise of more to come.