In an electrifying finale that had football fans from all over Osun State on the edge of their seats, A.U.D All Stars FC of Osogbo emerged as the victors of the 4th edition of the Hammola Football Championship.
The competition, which began on September 16, 2023, reached its thrilling conclusion on October 29, 2023, at the Ido Osun High School football facility. The event was marked by incredible talent, nail-biting moments, and a memorable display of sportsmanship.
Before the final showdown, the third-place match saw HMK Football Club secure a well-deserved victory over Warriors FC in a thrilling penalty shootout. HMK Football Club displayed remarkable composure to claim the third position in the championship.
However, the championship’s highlight was undoubtedly the intense final match between A.U.D All Stars FC of Osogbo and Timi Giants FC of Ede. After a regulation time that ended in a goalless draw, the teams went into a penalty shootout, and it was A.U.D All Stars FC who emerged victorious, winning 5-4 on penalties.
The final game was marked by careful and calculated gameplay by both teams, each determined not to make a critical mistake. The first half saw limited action as both teams struggled to break through the solid defense of the other. A notable threat to A.U.D. All Stars came from Timi Giants’ Captain and striker, Olanrewaju Habeeb, commonly known as “Elege.” Still, A.U.D. All Stars’ defensive duo of Oladipupo Semiu and Adeleke Muse successfully neutralized his threats.
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On the opposite side of the pitch, Olawale Godwin of A.U.D All Stars came tantalizingly close to scoring in the dying minutes of the first half. However, the Timi Giants’ goalkeeper pulled off an impressive save, and the striker’s rebound shot sailed over the crossbar, leaving supporters in disbelief.
The second half of the game continued in the same vein, with limited scoring opportunities. A.U.D All Stars’ striker, Olawale Godwin, remained a constant threat to the Timi Giants’ goal. Both teams remained vigilant not to concede late goals. When the referee blew the final whistle, it was evident that the only way to decide the winner would be through a penalty shootout.
In a dramatic turn of events, Sheriff Olawale of A.U.D All Stars had his penalty, which was the fourth in the shootout, saved by the Timi Giants’ goalkeeper. However, the Timi Giants’ Jamal Okunloye and Sodiq Maruf missed their penalties, ultimately handing the championship to A.U.D All Stars of Osogbo.
Dignitaries Present at the Grand Finale of Hammola Football Championship
The grand finale of the Hammola Football Championship was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, adding prestige to the event. Notable figures in attendance included:
- Odeyemi Muhydeen Oladele Hammola, the CEO and organizer of the championship.
- Mr. Olawale Olaleke, the EGBEDORE LG Football Association Chairman.
- Mr. Odegboye Adeboye, CEO of CALDOR BUILDING MERCHANTS.
- Mr. Olasupo Mujeeb, CEO of MJAY FARM.
- Astute football administrator and journalist, Mr. Tunde Shamsudeen (Oba Ball).
- Alhaji Abimbola Rafiu (aka. Risky) and his right-hand man, Mr. Taiwo Titilayo.
- Mr. Isaac Sanyaolu
- Mr. Seyi Akanni the media officer of Osun United football club.
- Mr Seun Omolola the media officer of Osun Babes football club.
- Coach. Akin Oyedunmola and his fellow coaches from both Ede North and South.
- Coach Adeleke Rasheed Adediran, the Chairman of Grassroot Coaches Council, Osun State Chapter.
- Coach Suraj and his fellow coaches from Olorunda and Osogbo LGAs.
- Coach Najeem Adeosun.
- Mr. Amoo Abayomi, the Osun State Football Association Secretary.
- Mrs. Odeyemi Afusat, the wife of Oladele Hammola.
The 4th edition of the Hammola Football Championship will be remembered as a thrilling, action-packed event, and A.U.D All Stars FC of Osogbo’s victory will be celebrated for years to come. The championship showcased the power of sports to unite communities and celebrate talent, camaraderie, and competition.
