The climax of the 2023 Ikukuoma Mbaise U-20 football tournament draws near as Ere Na Birigwe delivered a stunning performance, defeating Obokwu Community 3-0 to advance to the final.
In a semi-final showdown at the Ezeagbogu Central School Field, Ezinihitte, Mbaise, Uche Ogba emerged as the hero, netting two spectacular goals for Ere Na Birigwe (Owerri West). His first goal came in the 24th minute, a delightful volley from outside the box, followed by another powerful strike from the edge of the 18-yard box in the 58th minute, doubling the lead to 2-0. Ukwuoma Chika sealed the victory with a superb volley in the 67th minute, making it 3-0.
Ere Na Birigwe’s dominance was evident throughout the match, marking it as one of the most one-sided affairs in the tournament. With their place secured in the final, they now focus on preparing for the ultimate showdown on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Eziudo (Ezinihitte) also booked their spot in the final after a tense encounter against Umuoree Eziudo ended in a 1-1 draw after regulation time. Achor Chigamezu gave Eziudo the lead in the 24th minute, but Ikechukwu Desmond leveled the score for Umuoree Eziudo in the 59th minute, sending the match to a penalty shootout. Eziudo emerged victorious, winning 3-2 on penalties.
As anticipation builds for the final on Sunday, March 3, 2024, between Ere Na Birigwe and Eziudo, the tournament organizers gear up for the third-place match between Obokwu Community and Umuoree Eziudo.
The champions of the tournament will be awarded a grand prize of 20 million Naira.
