FC Ebedei Break 12-Year Jinx to Reach Optima Energy Gold Cup Semi-Final.
In a historic achievement, FC Ebedei have broken a 12-year jinx by advancing to the semi-finals of the 12th edition of the Optima Energy Gold Cup. Joining them in the final four are defending champions Beyond Limits, Shooting Stars, and Association Sportive de la Vallée de l’Ouémé (ASVO) FC of Benin.
Beyond Limits secured their spot with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Ijebu United, finishing top of Group A with 9 points. ASVO FC, after a challenging start, claimed second place in the group with 4 points following a crucial 2-1 win against KASAM FA. Unfortunately, KASAM FA and Ijebu United, with 3 points and 1 point respectively, bowed out of the tournament.
In Group B, the competition was intense, with all four teams—Shooting Stars, FC Ebedei, Osun United, and newly promoted Ikorodu City—vying for the two available semi-final slots. Despite Ikorodu City’s 3-2 win over Osun United in a five-goal thriller, it was FC Ebedei and Shooting Stars who advanced, each with 5 points.
At the FC Ebedei Stadium, the Oliseh Boys showcased their resilience, coming from behind to draw with Shooting Stars, securing their first-ever semi-final berth in the Optima Energy Gold Cup after 12 years of trying.