SOCCER FOR ALL (SFA) 5 vs 4 BUNDESLIGA FC

In a thrilling friendly encounter, Soccer For All (SFA) edged past Bundesliga FC in a pulsating 5-4 victory on 6 September 2024, at the University of Ibadan. The match, which kicked off at 4:00pm, showcased a myriad of attacking football, with both teams exchanging blows in what became an exhilarating contest.

SFA lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, a setup designed to maximise width and pressing. The defensive line was composed of two central defenders, Kester Tomiwa and Siyanbade Adedamola, flanked by Israel Olubode on the right and Michael on the left. In midfield, Jimoh Ibrahim operated centrally, providing stability and playmaking, while Korede Abdul Samad and Richard Kehinde occupied the right and left midfield roles, respectively, responsible for supporting both the defence and attack. Up front, Victor Fowowe played on the right wing, Akwunwa Joel led the line as the striker, and Akintomide Akinbola took up a left forward position, tasked with cutting inside and creating goal-scoring opportunities.

The match got off to a dramatic start, with Bundesliga FC taking the lead in the 15th minute. Their early goal set the tone for a fiercely contested half. However, SFA responded well and equalised in the 32nd minute, as Akintomide Akinbola found the net, benefiting from a well-timed assist by Korede Abdul Samad. Just before half-time, SFA pulled ahead with a goal from Korede Abdul Samad in the 42nd minute, showing their offensive prowess as they headed into the break with a 2-1 lead.

As the second half commenced, Bundesliga FC showed their resilience and equalised just five minutes in, scoring in the 50th minute. The competitive spirit intensified when Jimoh Ibrahim restored SFA's lead in the 58th minute with a fantastic direct free-kick that left the opposition’s goalkeeper with no chance. The enthralling nature of the match continued as Bundesliga FC responded again, finding the net in the 70th minute to level the score at 3-3.

In the 80th minute, SFA took the lead once more, with Michael scoring from inside the box following an assist from Richard Kehinde. However, the drama wasn’t over yet, as Bundesliga FC struck again in the dying moments of regular time, netting their fourth goal in the 90th minute to equalise once more.

With the match teetering on the brink of a draw, SFA had one last opportunity in extra time. Victor Fowowe scored the decisive fifth goal in the 95th minute, assisted again by the ever-influential Korede Abdul Samad, sealing a remarkable victory for SFA. The match ended with SFA triumphant in a thrilling display of attacking football, with the final score reading 5-4.

Akintomide Akinbola was rightfully named Player of the Match, showcasing excellent performance throughout the encounter and contributing significantly to his team's success.