Day 2 of the Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup Round of 32 witnessed contrasting narratives unfold, yet both concluded with away teams celebrating their victories.
At the Mainbowl of the National Stadium Surulere, FC Ogunlade faced a tough challenge against FC Amoo. The match remained scoreless until the 47th minute when Ayo capitalised on a goalkeeper error, striking decisively to break the stalemate. This opportunistic goal was precisely what strikers dream of, granting Ogunlade a slim 1-0 lead as they head into the return leg. FC Amoo will feel they missed a crucial opportunity, with the tie still delicately poised.
The second match showcased a masterclass from FC Nieketien at Maracana Stadium. Just before the half-hour mark, FC Edema’s Ekene Enuegbu was penalised for a handball in the box and received a yellow card. Abubakar Abdullah confidently converted the penalty, giving Nieketien a 1-0 advantage and shifting the momentum decisively.
Nieketien continued their assault after halftime. In the 58th minute, Sylvester Emeka finished expertly from close range following a clever chest pass from Favour Nwanna, doubling their lead and putting Edema under significant pressure. By this point, Nieketien played with confidence, moving the ball purposefully and slicing through Edema’s defense.
The rout was finalised in the 83rd minute when Terryson Ouiruo soared to head in from a corner, beating the goalkeeper at close range and securing a well-deserved 3-0 victory for Nieketien. Edema faces a daunting task in the second leg.