By Saheed Afolabi
In a match filled with excitement and high expectations, Royal Pharaohs FC faced off against Straightway FC in the second leg of the Atlas Cup’s first round at the Femi Gbajabiamila Stadium in Orile. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
Royal Pharaohs FC, employing a 4-3-3 formation, started strong. In the 15th minute, Busayo’s powerful shot was saved by the Straightway FC keeper. Gabriel’s attempt in the 23rd minute hit the crossbar, and a Babilon goal was disallowed in the 41st minute due to a foul, ending the first half goalless.
The second half saw increased intensity. In the 76th minute, a quick flick from Friday assisted Jide Aka Doku, who scored to give Royal Pharaohs a 1-0 lead. However, Straightway FC equalized in the 90+1 minute, pushing the match to penalties.
Both teams converted their first 10 penalties, but Royal Pharaohs’ keeper Buga saved Straightway FC’s sixth penalty. Nonso Obijeh then stepped up and scored, securing a dramatic victory for Royal Pharaohs FC.
Coach Muhammed Adeleke, the technical Adviser of the team said he was certain the team was going to qualify for the next round and quality standard of the team can only get better.
Royal Pharaohs FC advanced to the round of 32 in the Atlas Cup.
