In a gripping semi-final encounter of the Coal City International Cup, Shooting Stars secured their place in the final with a narrow 1-0 victory over FC Kallon. The decisive moment came early in the match, as a 4th-minute own goal by the Sierra Leonean side proved to be the difference.
The match, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, commenced with high intensity. Both teams exhibited determination, but it was Shooting Stars who capitalized on a crucial mistake by FC Kallon. The early own goal set the tone for the game, putting Shooting Stars in the driver’s seat.
Coach Gbenga Ogunbote's 3SC lineup for the semi-final featured Chinedu Anozie in goal, supported by a defensive line consisting of Gali Falke, Ikouwem Utin, Adebayo Abayomi, and Desmond Ojietefian. The midfield was anchored by Gbolagade Adelowo, with Akpan Joshua, Daddy Abdulraham, and Christian Pyagbara providing additional support. Uche Onwuasonya and Victor Chukwudi were positioned upfront to challenge the FC Kallon defense.
FC Kallon, despite their early setback, tried to mount a comeback but were unable to break down the resolute Shooting Stars defense. The tactical adjustments by Shooting Stars, including a triple substitution in the 65th minute, were aimed at freshening up the squad and maintaining their lead. Samuel Ayanrinde, Adams Mustapha, and Kabiru Tijani replaced Victor Chukwudi, Christian Pyagbara, and Uche Onwuasonya, respectively.
The changes injected new energy into the team, and while FC Kallon continued to press, they failed to find the equalizer. The match ended with the scoreline unchanged, sealing a spot in the final for the Oluyole Warriors.
Shooting Stars will now await the outcome of the other semi-final between Rangers and Remo Stars. The winner of that tie will face Shooting Stars in the grand finale, set to be an exciting conclusion to the Coal City International Cup.
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