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Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) finally ended their Optima Energy Gold Cup final jinx, clinching the title with a 2-0 victory over defending champions Beyond Limits in a thrilling match at the Remo Stars Stadium on Saturday.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, the Oluyole Warriors showcased determination to secure their first title in the 12th edition of the tournament.
The match began with Shooting Stars displaying their intent. In the 32nd minute, Olaniyi Fasanmi was brought down in the box by Sodiq, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Aliyu Abubakar confidently converted, giving Shooting Stars a crucial lead as they headed into halftime.
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Early in the second half, Shooting Stars faced a setback when captain Taye Muritala was sent off for a foul on a Beyond Limits striker.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Shooting Stars remained resilient and extended their lead in the 72nd minute. Desmond Ojietefian rose highest to connect with a superb cross, nodding the ball into the net from range.
Shooting Stars win Optima Energy Gold Cup
Beyond Limits fought hard but failed to capitalise on their chances, leaving them to rue their missed opportunities. Shooting Stars, having lost three previous finals, were finally crowned champions, breaking their long-standing curse in the competition.
The champions were rewarded with ā¦2,000,000 by sponsors Optima Energy, while Beyond Limits received ā¦1,000,000 as runners-up. Individual accolades followed, with Olisa Emmanuel of Beyond Limits winning the Golden Glove for his three clean sheets.
Benin Republic’s ASVO (Association Sportive de la VallĆ©e de l’OuĆ©mĆ©) FC was recognised as the Best Behaved Team. Stephen Idowu earned the Best Referee award.
Meanwhile, Beyond Limits striker Kparobo Arierhi claimed the Highest Goalscorer honour with three goals. He also had an assist.
Aliyu Abubakar was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Coach Gbenga Ogunbote of Shooting Stars received the Best Coach award for his leadership in guiding his team to victory.
Tags: #OptimaEnergyGoldCup24Final, #OgunjobiGoldCup, #12thEdition, #nrtcnews, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #NewsRoundTheClock, #OptimaEnergyGoldCup, Shooting Stars, Beyond Limits Football Academy, Beyond Limits, ASVO FC, Kparobo Arierhi, Desmond Ojietefian, Aliyu Abubakar.
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