2024 NLO 2 Cup: Iwalewa Football Academy of Saki sends SDK Ibadan packing

Posted : 06 September 2024

The 2024 Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO 2) ongoing in Ibadan has created another milestone as Iwalewa Football Academy of Saki earned a deserving win over SDK Ibadan in the Oyo State playoffs.

After defeating the Ibadan-based side in a reversed fixture at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, the Saki football outfit, Iwalewa FA, prepared for a keenly contested battle against the very determined SDK. Both sides gave the fans a display of great football artistry, with Iwalewa FA winning 3-2 on aggregate.

The result was a 2-2 draw at Irewole Stadium, Saki, with Ajibowo Mutiu and Towobola Afeez on the scoresheet for Iwalewa FA, while Ayo Giwa scored a brace for the Ojasowo side.

Oyo FA boss, Oba Odeniran, who has previously served as a FIFA Referee and Match Commissioner, praised both sides and congratulated Iwalewa Football Academy for their resilience and determination, which earned them Nationwide League 2 status.

According to the highly revered monarch:

“The two teams gave the fans their money's worth with a closely contested match. On behalf of the Oyo State Football Association, I congratulate the winners, Iwalewa Football Academy, for providing fans with a great opportunity to watch quality football. I also extend my congratulations to the Saki fans.”

The State FA helmsman added:

“I was once a referee and had the privilege of reaching the FIFA stage. Therefore, I understand the importance of providing a level playing ground for all teams. No referee would want to compromise standards and end up on the blacklist of the state association. This commitment is why football is growing by leaps and bounds in Oyo State and encouraging the proliferation of private clubs across various zones and areas.”

After the match, the fans showered praise on the leadership of the association, particularly its Chairman, Alakinyele of Akinyele, HRM Oba James Odeniran, who played a key role in the advancement of Iwalewa Football Academy into the Nationwide League 2.

“If there’s anything that distinguishes the Oyo State Football Association from others, it’s the provision of a level playing ground for all teams, which gives us confidence to win anywhere,” said Wale Amoo.

Adekunle Julius added, “My club is one of the registered teams in this competition, but I can confidently say that the leadership of Oyo State FA is exemplary in terms of logistics. Although we lost, it was to a better side. In terms of security arrangements, fan control, and level playing fields, I give them high praise. The Chairman and his Secretary, Kehinde Ojelowo, have been exceptionally efficient in the state.”

“It may surprise you to know that I left a neighboring state to register with Oyo State Football Association due to double standards and high-handedness in my former state. However, I can vouch that Oyo State FA conducts its business transparently, in line with FIFA and CAF standards. Indeed, Oyo State Football Association stands out among others.”

2024 NLO 2 Cup: Iwalewa Football Academy of Saki sends SDK Ibadan packing

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