RAIA: Dados Boys clinched their spot in the finals by narrowly defeating Abuja Boys, 5-4, in a dramatic tie-breaker, in the Abuja FC inter-ward football tournament, at Benaulim ground.
From the opening whistle, Abuja Boys established themselves as a formidable force, nearly taking the lead in the 8th minute when Vishal’s brilliant solo effort grazed the goal post of the Dados Boys.
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The first half was marked by cautious, possession-based play from both sides, with neither team willing to concede an early advantage. However, the tempo shifted dramatically in the second half. In the 35th minute, Maverick of Dados Boys controlled a precise pass from Samuel and unleashed a powerful strike, leaving Abuja’s keeper Tino with no chance, thus giving Dados a 1-0 lead.
As the match edged towards its conclusion, Abuja Boys mounted a relentless attack. Their persistence paid off when Vishal’s well-placed shot was skillfully controlled by Keegan, who coolly tapped it into the net, equalizing the game and forcing a tie-breaker.
In the nail-biting penalty shootout, Cavin, Joyron, Samuel, and Maverick found the back of the net for Dados Boys. For Abuja Boys, Cedron, Vishal, and Rosely successfully converted their penalties.
Maverick’s exceptional performance earned him the man-of-the- match accolade, highlighting his crucial role in his team’s victory and setting the stage for an eagerly anticipated final.
