The opening game of the Optima Energy Gold Cup 12th edition at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, lived up to the hype as debutants Kasam FC of Ilorin defeated last year’s runners-up Ijebu United 2-1.
It was an interesting first half for both teams, but Ijebu United will rue their misses and the unfortunate own goal that gifted Kasam FC the 3 points.
Obashina Rilwan put Ijebu United ahead, making good use of his physique, as he turned away from his marker to nod from a cross to the top left corner of the goal in the quarter of an hour.
The lead only lasted for six minutes, as Ijebu United was punished for a needless foul inside the box. Kolawope Obalola made no mistake in converting the penalty to 1-1.
Kasam FC broke the camel’s back in the 38th minute, taking the lead via a Charles Igwe strike that deflected off the heels of Ijebu United’s Ejioke Michael for an own-goal
The second half saw much attacking play from both teams, but Ijebu United were left to rue their misses.
