In a thrilling conclusion to the 12th edition of the Optima Energy Gold Cup, Shooting Stars of Ibadan shattered their longstanding final jinx by defeating defending champions Beyond Limits 2-0 at the Remo Stars Stadium on Saturday.
The victory, achieved despite being reduced to 10 men, marks a significant milestone for the Oluyole Warriors, who have struggled to secure the title in previous attempts.
The match was a tale of resilience and determination, with Shooting Stars demonstrating their tactical prowess and experience.
The first breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Olaniyi Fasanmi, skillfully set up by Utim, was brought down in the box by Sodiq. The referee, without hesitation, pointed to the spot, and Aliyu Abubakar coolly converted the penalty, giving Shooting Stars a crucial lead heading into halftime.
The second half began on a tense note for the Ibadan-based team as they lost their captain, Taye Muritala, just two minutes in, following a rash challenge on a Beyond Limits striker. Despite this setback, Shooting Stars held their ground, and in the 72nd minute, Desmond Ojietefian delivered the decisive blow, rising above the defense to head home a superb cross, securing the win.
Beyond Limits, who had been in excellent form throughout the tournament, were left to lament missed opportunities as they fell short in their title defense. This loss was a stark contrast to their dominant performance in previous rounds, as they struggled to break down a resolute Shooting Stars defense.
The champions, Shooting Stars, were rewarded with ₦2,000,000 from the tournament’s proud sponsors, Optima Energy, while Beyond Limits received ₦1,000,000 as runners-up.
Individual accolades were also handed out, with Olisa Emmanuel of Beyond Limits winning the Golden Glove for his outstanding performances, which included three clean sheets. Benin Premier League’s Association Sportive de la Vallée de l’Ouémé (ASVO) FC was recognized as the Best Behaved Team, and Stephen Idowu was named Best Referee. The Highest Goalscorer award went to Kparobo Arierhi, who netted three goals and provided one assist, while Shooting Stars’ Aliyu Abubakar was honored as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. His coach, Gbenga Ogunbote, was also recognized as the Best Coach of the off-season tournament.
Shooting Stars’ victory in the Optima Energy Gold Cup is a testament to their determination and ability to overcome challenges, setting the stage for a promising season ahead.
