The 9th Edition of MaiLafia Peace and Unity Football Tournament witnessed a thrilling encounter as Matawalle FC of Doma emerged champions at the 9th Edition of the MaiLafia Peace and Unity Football Tournament.
The team defeated Greater Tomorrow FC of Lafia 1-0 winners at the end of the pulsating match.
The match, played in Daddare, Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, got off to an explosive start as Matawalle FC’s deadly striker, Ike (Jersey No. 9), struck in the opening minute, sending the spectators into raptures.
The lightning-quick goal, the fastest in the tournament’s history, sent shockwaves at the final match
Greater Tomorrow FC, though taken aback by the early setback, regrouped and mounted a spirited challenge to restore parity but their efforts proves abortive.
The Lafia-based side pushed forward with renewed urgency, probing the Matawalle FC defense with telling effect.
Despite their best efforts, the Greater Tomorrow FC failed to breach the resolute Matawalle FC rearguard, as the first half ended 1-0 in favour of the Doma based side.
The second half witnessed another frenetic battle between the two teams, with both sides creating scoring opportunities.
However, the Matawalle FC defense stood firm, repelling wave after wave of Greater Tomorrow FC attacks.
The Greater Tomorrow FC, though dominating possession, struggled to find the breakthrough, as Matawalle FC produced a string of stunning saves to preserve the slender lead.
As the match entered the final minutes, tensions ran high, with both teams committing men forward in search of a goal. However, the Matawalle FC defense held firm, ensuring a hard-fought 1-0 victory.
Speaking in interview with journalists, the organiser of the tournament, Yakubu Agabi, expressed delight over the success of the event.
Agabi said he was extremely happy that the investment isn’t a waste, adding that his aim is to invest in the players for their future.
“This tournament is not just about football; it’s about giving young players an opportunity to showcase their talent and potentially earn a living from the sport.
“My joy is seeing these grassroots players perform and knowing they can take care of their families and villages if they make it big.”
Agabi promised a better-organised 10th edition, saying, “It’s going to be a decade of football at the Grand Slam a decade of grassroots, breathtaking football.”
Also speaking Muhammad Dan-Azumi, former Chairman of Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education, highlighted the progress made by the tournament, saying there’s been development year-in, year-out.
“Some clubs that started this competition aren’t around now because others have improved,” he noted.
Supporters like Barr Hussein Umar praised the tournament, calling it “one of the most fantastic games I’ve ever seen.”
Umar also called for more investment in the event, saying, “Sport needs funding, and that’s a big challenge even at national level. We can get more investment through friends and associates.”
The Voice reports that tournament’s success story witnessed an increase in the cash prize for winner as the 1st place wnt home with 1.3million naira,2nd posted received 1 million naira while the 3rd and 4th positions received N700,000 and N400,000 respectively.
