Football
EFCC Football Club of Abuja on Tuesday edged TSM FC of Kaduna 3-1 in a Group A encounter in the ongoing 2025 FCT Nationwide League One (NLO) pre-season tournament.
The win, in the match played at the Area 3 Football Pitch in Abuja, helped EFCC FC to book a place in the competition’s semi-finals.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that EFCC FC played three matches, securing two wins and one draw, while TSM FC played two matches, losing one and drawing one.
EFCC FC are now topping the group, with 10 points, while TSM FC have one point.
The winners took the lead in the 10th minute when Abubakar Mohammed headed the ball into the net from close range.
TSM FC equalised in the 18th minute through a stunning free-kick by Dogore Bitrus, who curled the ball into the right corner of the net.
TSM FC dominated possession and created scoring opportunities, but failed to convert the chances.
EFCC FC were awarded a penalty kick in the 37th minute, but Sani Umar’s shot sailed over the bar, for the first half to end 1-1.
On resumption of the second half, EFCC FC regained the lead when Daniel Job scored in the 55th minute.
Umar made way for Arinze Nnaji thereafter, with the substitute making an immediate impact by scoring in the 61st minute to end the game 3-1.
Speaking after the match, Emmanuel Icha, the captain of EFCC FC, said it was incredible that his team emerged victorious.
“There was a delay and it actually helped us to regain our focus and momentum in the game.
“Our goal is now to win the trophy, which will help us overcome our weaknesses,” he said.
Icha lauded the fact there was the pre-season tournament, highlighting its benefits for teams to prepare for the league proper in April.
“I hope that the tournament will attract sponsors to support its growth and encourage more clubs to participate,” he said.
On his part, Hassan Saidu, the Head Coach of TSM FC, noted that his team made some mistakes.
“We are now committed to learning from them and improving on our performance, going forward.
“Our last group match is on Wednesday at 12 noon at the same venue, and we are determined to secure a win,” he said.
Saidu added that his team traveled to Abuja for the competition to use it to focus on team building and bonding.
“We are here in Abuja to blend the team together and prepare for the competition ahead.
“Our team is going to spend two weeks in Abuja to integrate players and build team cohesion among the players.
“I will like to extend my appreciation to the organisers, referees and the FCT Football Association Secretary, Haruna Ilerika, for a well-organised tournament,” he said.
NAN reports that the competition’s Group A consists of EFCC FC, Daniel FC, TSM FC, Total Dazzlers FC and Atlantic Integral FC.
Meanwhile, in other matches, Total Dazzlers FC dominated Daniel FC, securing a convincing 4-0 victory, while RBM Sports edged Woodpeckers FC 3-2.
Also, Likeminds FC drew 1-1 with Hyperbuzz FC.
NAN reports that the competition’s semi-finals stage will begin on Monday with winners of Group A facing the winners of Group B.(NAN)
