… Sports’ stakeholders appreciate the sponsor, Dr Barr. Olumuyiwa Adu “Cubana” for philanthropic gestures
Idanre United will on November 29 lock horns with Ijapo Ages Stars (Akure South) in the final of the 3rd Adu Unity Football Competition at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.
Idanre United booked their place in the final after defeating Celecal FC 4–2 on penalties, following a goalless draw in regulation time in the first semifinal.
The intense contest between the Idanre-based side and Celecal FC of Akure South showcased top-level grassroots football artistry. Neither team could find the back of the net before the centre referee signaled for a straight penalty shootout, which Idanre United won.
In the second semifinal, Ijapo Ages Stars FC (Akure South) beat Akure United 2–0 to secure their spot in the final against Idanre United.
Eric Greg opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Femi Kolawole was brought down inside the box, following a clever final pass from Taiwo Rotimi who dribbled past an oncoming defender.
Akure United attempted an immediate response, but the well-coordinated Ijapo Ages Stars backline, marshalled by Jeremiah Michael, neutralised their attacking threats.
Nosa Enabulele doubled the lead with a header, converting from a rebound off Monday Omohera’s free-kick, leaving his former coach Adeola Adetomiwa with no answer.
Ijapo Ages Stars dominated proceedings afterward, dictating the pace for the remainder of the encounter.
With the semifinal results, Idanre United will battle Ijapo Ages Stars FC in the final, while Celecal FC will face Akure United in the third-place match.
Reacting to his team’s performance, Ijapo Ages Stars FC coach, Michael Olaleke Karimu, praised his players for their tactical discipline.
“It was a tactical game, especially when you’re playing against your former coach. I thank God my players followed instructions, and it paid off at the end of 90 minutes,” he said.
“We are heading to our third final in this competition. We won the first and second editions unbeaten, and we hope to retain the trophy for the third consecutive time without losing.”
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Raymond Abdulsalam, congratulated both finalists for reaching the championship match.
“While I thank all participating teams for their understanding and for playing according to the rules, I urge football lovers across the 18 local government areas to throng the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure, to watch the very best of grassroots football in the state,” he said.
Sports’ stakeholders including football enthusiasts have expressed their appreciation to Dr Barr. Olumuyiwa Adu “Cubana” for sponsoring this tournament for the third time among his other humanitarian activities that have direct impacts on the citizens.
ADU MEDIA COUNCIL
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
