Lions Stage Comeback to Secure Draw in Cool Hopefuls Cup Opener
Wonderxchange FC displayed immense character in their Cool Hopefuls Cup opener, fighting back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against The Lord’s Favour FA at the FC Ebedei Stadium, Sagamu.
Despite a slow start, The Lions showed resilience and determination, scoring twice in the final 15 minutes to earn a crucial point in Group B.
Team Selection
Head Coach made four changes to the side that defeated Saints FC 1-0 in the final pre-tournament friendly. Goalkeeper Imoleayo Alabi retained his spot, while Lekan Ajeyomi returned to captain the team.
In defense, Sunday Emmanuel returns from injury and is available after suffering a head knock in the last match. Abass Alade and Tobiloba Ajeyomi retained their places, forming a three-man backline.
Midfield saw a reshuffle, with Glory Obiogba and Sikiru Sule coming into the starting lineup, replacing Amuda and Lege. Meanwhile, Madu and Melody Terdoo continued in central roles, with Mighty Aderibigbe and Sunkanmi Adeyeye leading the attack.
On the bench, Seun Ojo, Mathias Gowon, Omolade Ibitayo, Richard Emmanuel, Oluwatobiloba Michael, and Amaechi Sunday were named as substitutes.
First Half
The match began at a cautious pace, with both sides struggling to find a breakthrough. Wonderxchange FC looked to impose their style of play, but an early injury to Tobiloba Ajeyomi forced an unexpected tactical adjustment, with Seun Ojo replacing him.
Despite controlling possession in spells, The Lions failed to create clear-cut chances. Madu and Melody tried to orchestrate attacks from midfield, but the final pass often lacked precision.
At the other end, The Lord’s Favour FA looked dangerous in transition, but Imoleayo Alabi stood firm to keep the score level. With neither team able to break the deadlock, the first half ended goalless.
Second Half
The game sparked into life after the restart, with The Lord’s Favour FA breaking the deadlock in the 58th minute following a defensive lapse. A quick counterattack left Wonderxchange’s backline exposed, and Rafael Favour made no mistake in finishing past Imoleayo.
Momentum swung further in the opposition’s favor when they doubled their lead in the 70th minute through Emeka Eyeribe, capitalizing on another defensive lapse.
Facing a 2-0 deficit, Wonderxchange FC responded with intensity, increasing the pressure in attack. Their perseverance paid off when Mighty Aderibigbe pulled a goal back in the 76th minute, finishing smartly after a well-worked move.
Just four minutes later, The Lions were level. Amaechi Sunday’s dangerous cross forced an own goal, sparking celebrations as Wonderxchange FC completed their comeback.
With momentum now on their side, The Lions pushed for a winner, but The Lord’s Favour FA held firm, ensuring the game ended in a hard-fought 2-2 draw.
What’s next
Wonderxchange FC will look to build on this comeback when they face Elebuibon Boys from Osun State tomorrow at 2 PM at the FC Ebedei Stadium.
📺 LIVE STREAM: Watch the match on FC Ebedei’s official YouTube channel.
Match Details
Wonderxchange FC XI: Imoleayo; Lekan, Abass, Tobiloba (Ojo 30), Elewe (Omolade 46); Glory, Melody, Sikiru, Madu (Oluwatobiloba 68); Mighty, Sunkanmi (Amaechi 65)
Unused subs: Michael, Mathias, Richard
Scorers: Mighty 76’ , Own Goal 80’
Assists: Amaechi 76,80’
