By Adebayo Olodan
All Stars, Air Force, House of Prayer and Abacha FC qualified for the semi-finals of the JAFAK Cup 2019 at the expense of Super Utd, Rising Stars, Golden Stars and La Planet FC respectively.
In the first quarter-final match decided at the Kwara Football Academy pitch, Ilorin on Tuesday, Abacha FC defeated La Planet 4-3 through penalties after the two teams failed to score in regulation time.
Oladosu Dele was the match hero as he saved a penalty after replacing Gidado, who was issued a red card during the shootout.
The second match of the day between House of Prayer and Golden Stars was also decided by penalties after House of Prayer’s Adama Isaiah cancelled Kunle Olowookere’s goal in the 89th minute. House of Prayer eventually won the match 8-7 on penalties.
The match between Air Force FC and Rising Stars, yesterday, turned out the most enthralling encounter and the highest scoring match as the two teams drew 4-4 in regulation time. Nuhu Abdulhafiz scored the opener for Air Force in the 10th minute while Elewedu Gafar added a second five minutes later. Rising Stars scored two quick goals in the 21st and 26th minute through Mashood Stam and Bolaji Basambo respectively. Air Force had their lead restored though Yekini Samad’s brace in the 46th and 53rd minute but two strikes from Fatai Yusuf in the 65th minute and Basambo in the 80th minute put the score line at 4-4. Air Force however emerged the winner 4-2 on penalties.
In the final match of the quarter-finals, Super Utd turned out to be stubborn customers for All Stars having shot into the lead through Muritala Rahman in the 41st minute. All Stars captained by former Warri Wolves midfielder, Ichull Lordson however scored twice within 12 minutes through Abdulkadri Aminu (47th min) and Godwin Godwin (59th min).
The tension soaked match witnessed six yellow cards issued to players of the two teams.
Meanwhile, Air Force FC will play Abacha FC in the first semi-final 8am on Friday while All Stars will take on House of Prayer same time on Monday in the second semi-final at the Kwara Football Academy (KFA) pitch.
JAFAK Cup which is held in honour of former Kwara United chairman and renowned NFF match commissioner, Prince Joseph Aranloye Fakayode is sponsored by his son, Lanre Fakayode.
Prince Fakayode who died at the age of 68 was the first and only non-native to serve as Chairman, Ilorin Emirate Football Association (IEFA) and the sole sponsor of Amuedewe youth soccer competition.
