The 2023 Ikukuoma Mbaise U-20 football tournament progressed to the third knockout stage games on Sunday, February 18, 2024, showcasing thrilling encounters that decided the fate of competing teams.
Obizi Community Triumphs Over Ihitte Ward 2-0
Obizi Community (Ezinihitte) advanced further in the tournament with a convincing 2-0 victory against Ihitte Ward (Ezinihitte) in the first knockout stage fixture held at the Ezeagbogu Central School Field, Ezinihitte, Mbaise.
John Ernest stole the spotlight with a stellar performance, opening the scoring for Obizi Comm with a delightful volley within the first five minutes. Joseph Eberechi doubled the lead to 2-0 with a brilliant individual finish from outside the box in the 18th minute, securing a comfortable advantage going into halftime. Obizi Community maintained their dominance in the second half, restricting Ihitte Ward’s chances and securing a spot in the tournament’s last eight.
Umuoree Eziudo Overwhelms Emil (Owerri North) 3-1
In another Round 16 fixture, Umuoree Eziudo (Ezinihitte) demonstrated their prowess with a 3-1 victory over Emil (Owerri North). Okaehialam Chijioke stole the show, scoring a second-half brace. Benjamin Famous contributed to the scoreline with an unfortunate own goal in the 26th minute, but quickly redeemed himself with two remarkable individual goals in the 53rd and 57th minutes.
Lawrence Ifeanyi salvaged a consolation goal for Emil (Owerri North) in the 79th minute, but it wasn’t enough to alter the outcome. Umuoree Eziudo secured their spot in the Quarterfinals of the 2023 Ikukuoma Mbaise U-20 football tournament.
Umuoree Eziudo is now set to face Obizi Community (Ezinihitte) in what promises to be an exciting Quarterfinal clash later this week.
Upcoming Knockout Stage Fixtures
The excitement continues with today’s knockout stage fixtures:
- Lude (Ahiazu) vs Uvuru Community (Aboh Mbaise)
- Onicha Nwenkwo (Ezinihitte) vs Eziudo (Ezinihitte)
