Ikenna Nwokedi
Awka Angels FC and Ozalla FC on Sunday, 9th April 2023 emerged champions of the Male and Female categories of the 2023 Neros Pharmaceuticals Anambra FA Cup played at the Neros Sports Complex Nanka.
Awka Angels defeated Maureen Mmadu Kiddies FC (MMKFC) by a lone goal scored in the 61st minute by Oluchi Akujieze in the first finals played on the day.
The victory was a sweet revenge for the Alex Nzekwe’s female side who lost to MMKFC in the previous edition held last year.
Ozalla FC on their part dethroned last year’s defending Champions, Edel FC through a Michael Chidera’s strike in the 42nd minute where Edel FC Goalkeeper Uche Iloha should have done better with his saves.
The boys from Obosi held their nerves to survive the onslaught of their opponent even after the skipper, Ebuka Ewudo was served his matching orders in the course of the game.
In the third and fourth placed match earlier played on Saturday, Global FC saw off Peace FC 8-7 on penalty shootouts after a scored draw at the end of 90 minutes of regulation.
In his reaction, the benefactor, Chief Professor Poly Emenike commended the two sides for a good display in the finals which was not short of entertainment. Emenike revealed that his love for the round leather game is the reason behind the sponsorship of the competition for over 15 years and counting. He called on stakeholders to see football as a tool for fostering unity and coexistence.
On his part, the Chairman, Anambra State Sports Development Commission (ASSDC), Hon. Patrick Estate Onyedum commended Chief Emenike for his immense support to the game in the state and beyond. He pointed out that the commission currently has a blueprint that will encourage not just the growth of football but other sports in it’s entirety.
Also responding, the Proprietor of Ozalla FC, Ikenna Osueke commended both sides for putting on a good show. He specially commended his boys for the display against an experienced side in the mould of Edel FC, he also revealed that they will step up preparations in order to prepare for the National Federations Cup.
Ozalla FC and Edel FC will represent the state in the male version of the 2023 Federations Cup while Awka Angels and MMKFC will represent the state in the female.
