Ilaji FC faced a challenging encounter against Osun United in a friendly match at the Osogbo Township Stadium on Saturday, the 18th of November, 2023.
Despite a commendable performance, Ilaji FC succumbed to a 1-0 defeat, with a penalty awarded to Osun United in the 58th minute of the encounter .
Speaking to Futball Naija after the game, Coach Sesan Ogundele, the head coach of Ilaji FC, acknowledged the intensity of the match, describing it as a tough game.
Despite the loss, he expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, particularly highlighting the resilience displayed by his players.
Osun United, whose scheduled opening day game against Gateway United FC in Nigerian National League (NNL) was canceled, used the friendly match to stay competitive.
The first half witnessed the Omoluabi Giants grappling with Ilaji FC’s playing style.
However, In the second half, Ilaji FC’s defender, Okiki, committed a foul in the box, resulting in a penalty that was successfully converted by Osun United’s striker, Agbolade Oladayo.
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Reacting after the match, Coach Ogundele commended the referees for a very decent officiating.
In his words, he said; “the referees were fair throughout the game.”
Addressing the awarded penalty, he acknowledged that it was indeed a good call by the referee.
He said; “it was a clear foul by my defender.”
The coach however emphasized his satisfaction with the referee’s decision.
Reflecting on his team’s overall performance, Coach Sesan expressed his pride, stating that his players gave their all.
Looking ahead to the forthcoming NLO season, he confidently declared Ilaji FC’s readiness, affirming their belief in the team’s potential to go all the way.
In summary, despite the defeat, Coach Sesan Ogundele remains optimistic about Ilaji FC’s prospects, praising the team’s dedication and expressing confidence in their readiness for the upcoming challenges in the NLO season.
