The female football event at the Asaba 2024 National Youth Games has been overshadowed by a refereeing scandal during the semifinal match between Team Osun and Team Bayelsa, held at St. Patrick School, Asaba.
The Controversy
Team Osun were leading 1-0 in the 67th minute when a highly controversial penalty was awarded to Team Bayelsa by a female referee identified as Miss Peace from Anambra State. The penalty, described as “non-existent,” resulted in Bayelsa equalizing, ultimately denying Osun a place in the final. The decision has sparked outrage and intense debate, with video footage of the incident currently trending online.
Watch the video below;
Despite the disappointment of the draw, which ended Team Osun’s hopes of reaching the final, the Osun State Football Association Secretary, Mr. Amoo Abayomi, commended the team for their hard-fought performance. To lift their spirits, he awarded the girls ₦50,000, praising their determination and efforts to qualify for the final.
Mr. Amoo said, “I did this because I was impressed by the girls for giving their all in the match. I don’t want them to feel disheartened, as they did everything within their power to qualify.”
Team Osun will now compete for a medal place in their next game, as they aim to end the tournament on a high note.
What’s Next for Team Osun?
As the dust settles from this controversial decision, Team Osun will look ahead to their next match, where they will compete for a place on the podium.
Stay tuned for further updates as the National Youth Games continue in Asaba, Delta State.
