Wonderxchange put on a scintillating display of attacking football as they secured a 5-3 victory over Royal-Goldwin SA in a pre-season friendly match. In an action-packed encounter, the Lions dominated proceedings from the start and ran riot in the first half, scoring four goals to put the game beyond their opponents’ reach. Despite a brief resurgence from the home team, Wonderxchange sealed the win with a late goal. Here’s a comprehensive match report highlighting the key moments of the game.

The Selection

Coach Ola named a young and energetic side for the match, with Tope Otaki starting in goal. Victor Emelike and Haruna Yusuf formed the central defensive partnership, while Mathias Gowon and Osasu Sunday started at left and right-back, respectively. Taiwo Ogunleye played in the defensive midfield role, with Ayodele Omotayo and Femi Ariyo partnering in central midfield. Amaechi Sunday, Chinedu Okorie, and Peter Ajomole led the attack.

 

 

The Lions Roar

Wonderxchange wasted no time in asserting their dominance, launching a barrage of attacks from the kickoff. Amaechi Sunday came closest to scoring in the 5th minute but his shot from a set-piece rattled against the woodwork. The Lions continued to push forward and were finally rewarded in the 17th minute when Amaechi pounced on a rebound to give his team the lead.

Three minutes later, Chinedu Okorie doubled the advantage with a well-taken left-footed strike. Peter Ajomole could have added to the tally in the 40th minute, but his header crashed against the crossbar. However, he made amends three minutes later when he slotted home a sublime pass from Omotayo Ayodele to make it 3-0.

Omotayo Ayodele himself got on the scoresheet just before halftime, scoring with a clinical finish into the top right corner, assisted by Chinedu Okorie. The Lions went into the break with a comfortable four-goal lead, having dominated the first half.

 

Seeing It Through

However, the host team came out in the second half more determined than ever to get back into the game. They managed to score two goals by the 60th minute, bringing the scoreline to 4-2. The Lions’ gaffer, sensing the danger, made six changes to the team to regain control of the game. One of the substitutes, Dotun Olafisoye, pulled the game further away from the host with a well-executed free-kick to make it 5-2 for the Lions.

From then on, the Lions maintained their focus and determination to see the game through to the end. Although the host managed to score one more goal in the 88th minute, it was too late to mount a comeback. The Lions sealed an emphatic victory and sent a clear message to their upcoming opponents.

 

What’s Next?

The Lions’ next match is against FEMA FC on Friday at the Ondo State Sports Complex as they continue to prepare for the upcoming NLO youth league. This victory is a significant boost to the Lions’ confidence as they prepare for the upcoming NLO youth league. Coach Ola’s decision to field a younger side showed that he is building a team for the future. The team’s attacking prowess and determined defense were on full display in the match against Royal-Goldwin SA and the Lions will hope they can carry their form into the new season.

Wonderxchange FC (4-3-3): Tope, Victor(Romeo 65), Haruna, Mathias(Bonny 65), Osasu(Samson 65), Taiwo(Dotun 65), Femi(Afolabi 65), Omotayo(Abednego 65), Peter, Chinedu, Amaechi.

Unused subs: Emmanuel, Tomisin, Onome, Lekan A., Femi.

Goalscorers: Amaechi 17, Chinedu 20, Peter 43, Omotayo 45, Dotun 66

Assists: Omotayo 43, Chinedu 45,

Yellow cards: Romeo 73, Afolabi 89′