Former Japan ’93 FIFA U-17 World Cup winner, Festus Odini, has expressed delight with his growing coaching responsibilities after FC Odini played out an entertaining 2-2 draw against FC Ikpeba in the Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup.
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The thrilling encounter, played at the Alade Stadium, was one of the standout fixtures on Day 3 of the competition as both teams produced an exciting attacking display.
FC Odini made a dream start to the game when Malomo Basit scored inside the opening minute to hand Odini’s side an early advantage.
FC Ikpeba, however, responded strongly and restored parity through Daniel Okon, who headed home the equaliser.
The contest remained evenly balanced throughout the encounter before Nsikak Nsikak restored FC Odini’s lead in the 71st minute.
Just when it looked like Odini’s side would claim victory, Assurance Solomon struck late for FC Ikpeba to ensure the pulsating tie ended 2-2.
Speaking to Sports247 after the game, Odini praised the intensity and competitiveness displayed by both teams, while admitting his side must improve defensively and learn how to protect their lead better.
“The two teams did very well. It was a very competitive game and I was really impressed with what I saw from my own team and FC Ikpeba as well,” Odini said.
Reflecting on his side surrendering the lead twice during the encounter, the former international stressed the need for discipline and concentration.
“When you are leading, you must be able to keep the advantage. That is what cost us today. Keeping a lead requires discipline and concentration, and those are areas we still need to improve on. It is still a work in progress,” he added.
Odini also pointed to missed opportunities in the first half as another major factor that prevented his team from securing victory.
“We created a lot of chances, especially in the first half, and we should have taken them. Football is about scoring goals, and when you score, you must try to hold on to the lead,” he stated.
Despite the draw, the former Japan ’93 star remains optimistic ahead of the second leg and believes his players will learn from the experience as they continue their campaign in the tournament.
Elsewhere on Day 3 of the Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup, FC Agali defeated FC Oloyede 3-1 in Badagry, while FC Akanni secured a narrow 1-0 win over FC Dominic courtesy of an 85th-minute strike from substitute Boluwatife Iwaojuku at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
