In a dramatic upset, underdog Ilaji FC emerged victorious over giants Shooting Stars FC in the 2024 Oyo State Federation Cup final. The lower league side displayed remarkable resilience, coming back twice from a deficit and eventually winning 5-4 on penalties after a pulsating 3-3 draw.
The match, held at Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, saw Ilaji play with a never-say-die attitude. Shooting Stars took an early lead through Ifon Pepo’s composed finish in the 13th minute. However, Ilaji FC responded fiercely. Babalola Okikiola stunned the crowd with two goals in quick succession, putting his team ahead 2-1 by the 31st minute.
Shooting Stars refused to surrender. Captain Taofeek Malomo equalized in the 61st minute, but Okikiola completed his hat-trick just five minutes later. Ayobami Junior restored hope for Shooting Stars with a beautiful strike in the 72nd minute, sending the game into a tense finale.
With the score tied after regulation time, the penalty shootout became a battle of nerves. Ilaji held their composure, converting all their attempts, while Shooting Stars missed their third penalty. This dramatic turn of events secured Ilaji FC’s first-ever Federation Cup title in Oyo State and brought sweet revenge for their 2023 final loss to the same opponent.
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