The iconic Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, came alive today as the much-anticipated football clash between the Omituntun Non-Political Office Holders and the Young Political Appointees drew an electrifying crowd. Fans filled the stadium to witness a blend of experience and youthful energy in a match that delivered drama, skill, and unforgettable moments.
Led by their captain, Otunba Seye Famojuro, the Non-Political Office Holders demonstrated their experience and tactical prowess, dominating the game from the first whistle. In a match that began with a bang, Father of the Day, Hon. Babatunde Tijani (Double T), ignited the crowd with a deft one-two pass that resulted in the opening goal just three minutes into the game.
Fifteen minutes later, Fryo, the star striker of the day, doubled the lead, finishing a pinpoint pass from Famojuro with clinical precision. The Young Political Appointees, stunned by the early onslaught, struggled to find their rhythm, as the seasoned playmakers dictated the pace with enviable composure.
Second-Half Resurgence by Young Appointees
Determined to turn the game around, the Young Political Appointees made strategic substitutions in the second half, introducing former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Segun Fakorede, alongside Hon. Yusuf Adebisi, Ona-Ara Chairman Hon. Glorious, and Ibadan North East Chairman Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo. The changes yielded immediate results, with Fakorede netting a brilliant goal to pull one back for the youthful side.
The momentum seemed to tilt in their favor when a controversial foul led to a penalty. However, the experienced Non-Political Office Holders’ goalkeeper denied the equalizer with a spectacular save, keeping the match alive for his team.
In the dying moments, Fryo once again proved unstoppable, delivering a sublime through ball that sliced through the defense. The ensuing strike left Young Political Appointees’ goalkeeper, Hon. Adeaga Adetokunbo, helpless as the Non-Political Office Holders sealed the game with a third goal.
A Lesson in Teamwork and Strategy
Speaking to newsmen after the match, Otunba Seye Famojuro emphasized the importance of teamwork over individual brilliance. “Football is a game of strategy and collaboration. While they have talent, they lacked cohesion, and that was their undoing. Our leader, Governor Seyi Makinde, always emphasizes teamwork, and we showed them today what that can achieve,” he said. Famojuro also encouraged the young team to regroup and return stronger for the next encounter.
Hon. Wole Akinyele, Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, acknowledged the lessons learned, promising a stronger showing in the return leg. Similarly, Prince Falana Adebowale Adebayo, Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, commended the experience and discipline of the Non-Political Office Holders, noting that his team would improve and return for a rematch.
A Match for the Ages
The event was graced by dignitaries, including Dr. Otope, Director-General of the Liaison Office in Abuja and Lagos, who performed the ceremonial kickoff. The match was a celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie, leaving fans and participants eagerly anticipating the return leg.
With the Non-Political Office Holders emerging victorious in this first clash, the stage is set for a thrilling rematch. For now, the scoreline reads: Experience 3, Youthful Exuberance 1.
