Lagos Liga: Tacha’s early blitz proves too much for Superstar FC in tense quarter-final
Review
Mobalaji Johnson Arena
Superstar FC
Tacha FC
| Game Statistics | ||
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Yellow cards | 0 |
| 0 | Red cards | 0 |
| 0 | Shots on Goal | 0 |
| 0 | Saves | 0 |
| 0 | Corner Kick | 0 |
| 0 | Shots | 0 |
| Fouls |
|
0 |
| SH |
|
0 |
| 0 |
|
Fouls |
| 0 |
|
SH |
Ball Possession
Game Timeline
Tacha FC delivered a resolute performance to defeat Superstar FC 2-1 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Saturday, 21 December 2024, advancing to the semi-finals of the Lagos Liga.
Despite coming under relentless pressure for much of the second half, Tacha FC’s early goals and defensive resilience proved decisive in earning their passage to the next round.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The match got off to a flying start as Tacha FC capitalised on a defensive lapse from Superstar FC to take the lead within the first minute. Onoja Matthew found himself in the right place at the right time to tap home a simple finish after a defensive mix-up left him unmarked inside the penalty area.
The Seye Bandele boys, stunned by the early goal, struggled to settle into their rhythm, and the opening exchanges saw Tacha Titans pressing high up the pitch. However, the game soon settled into a more conservative tempo, with both teams showing caution in possession.
Tensions flared in the 18th minute when technical staff from both benches were booked for multiple encroachments into the technical area, a reflection of the intensity and high stakes of the match.
Superstars finally registered their first meaningful attempt in the 20th minute when Samuel “Ripper” Oladepo unleashed a fierce strike from outside the box, forcing Memud Adeshina into a reflex save.
Chukwuneme Justin had a golden opportunity to draw Superstar level in the 27th minute after receiving a pass from Tomisin “Skarra” Alasiri, but his shot flew wide of the target, much to the frustration of his teammates.
Superstars were left to rue their missed chances as the Titans doubled their advantage just a minute later. A long clearance from Okpaise Miracle caught the Superstar FC defence off guard, allowing Joachim Ebube to pounce. Shrugging off challenges from Afeez “Phiz” Odunayo and Oluwagbenga Apata, the forward raced into the box and calmly slotted past Yusuf Eniola to make it 2-0.
The goal sent Tacha FC’s supporters into a frenzy, but Superstar remained composed and continued searching for a way back into the game. However, their attempts to break through were met with stiff resistance from the Titans’ backline.
The momentum shift saw Superstar FC take control of possession, pressing Tacha FC deeper into their half. Their territorial dominance almost paid off in the 33rd minute when Skarra’s curling effort struck the right upright, before his rebound attempt was blocked by the alert Oluwatobi Odusote.
Skarra continued to be Superstar’s main attacking threat, but his 35th-minute free kick lacked the power to trouble Memud. Superstar persisted, creating several half-chances, but their final delivery often let them down.
Nathan Emuobome had a clear sight of goal in the 38th minute after setting himself up for a strike, but his shot veered just wide of the target, leaving Superstar still searching for their breakthrough.
Superstars finally found the back of the net in the 40th minute through Hakeem Onitolo. Emobome’s precise cross into the box was flicked into his path by Skarra, and the attacker executed a superb half-volley that left Memud with no chance.
The late goal reignited Superstars’ hopes of a dramatic equaliser, but time was against them. The Titans managed the closing minutes well, frustrating their opponents with disciplined defending. The final whistle blew just three minutes later, confirming Tacha’s place in the semi-finals.
With this victory, Tacha FC joined Applebee FC and 30BG in the semi-finals of the Lagos Liga. They will now await the outcome of the final quarter-final clash between Primal Sporting and Golden Alchemy to determine their next opponent.
Results
| Team | 1st Half | 2nd Half | Goals | Possession | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Superstar FC | 0 | 1 | 1 | 66 | Loss |
| Tacha FC | 1 | 1 | 2 | 34 | Win |
MATCH STATISTICS
