By Marvellous Olalekan
In a climax to the Seals Cup 2024, MBBS emerged victorious over I.P.E, winning 5-4 in a dramatic penalty shootout at the SUB pitch on Saturday, August 24, 2024.
The match kicked off with both teams meticulously assessing each other's strategies. I.P.E showed their attacking prowess early on, searching for an early breakthrough. MBBS almost capitalized on a quick counter-attack from the right flank, but their forward’s attempt was thwarted by I.P.E’s resolute defender, VK.
As the game intensively progressed, the Liam-coached MBBS squad began to find their rhythm. In the 20th minute, an MBBS forward pounced on a loose ball, cut inside, and beat his marker, but his final pass was off the mark, missing a critical opportunity.
MBBS came close again when I.P.E’s Pius made a crucial error with a misplaced pass. MBBS’s Ramoni seized the chance, sending his winger through on goal. However, VK's steadfast defending once more kept I.P.E in the game. The match turned into a midfield battleground, with Pius dazzling the crowd with his dribbling and dangerous runs, yet neither team could break the deadlock.The first half concluded nil-nil, but the second half began with a burst of excitement. Shortly after the restart, I.P.E made their move. Pius delivered a pinpoint cross from the left wing, which was expertly converted by Abraham, who beat the goalkeeper with a precise finish to put I.P.E ahead 1-0.
This goal shifted the dynamics of the game, with MBBS pushing hard for an equalizer. A MBBS winger had a chance to level the score after a perfectly lofted pass but missed with a curling shot that went wide. Under pressure, Coach Liam made strategic substitutions, fresh energy into the MBBS side. The adjustments paid off when Carbon almost equalized with a spectacular overhead kick, only to be blocked and cleared.
As the match neared its end and it seemed like I.P.E would secure the win, MBBS's persistence paid off. Jide struck a powerful shot that beat the I.P.E goalkeeper, leveling the score and sending the game into extra time. Jide's equalizer rejuvenated the MBBS squad, who pressed for a winner, while I.P.E continued to pose threats, though their efforts were resolutely defended.
With the game tied 1-1 after regular time, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout. MBBS converted their first four penalties with precision. Fuad, with the weight of the game on his shoulders, stepped up and delivered the decisive blow, blasting his shot into the top corner to clinch the shootout 5-4 and secure the Seals Cup 2024 for MBBS.
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