In a pulsating Professor Do Easter Cup quarter-final that had spectators on the edge of their seats, Formidable Titans FC overcame United Talent in a five-goal thriller that showcased the beautiful game at its dramatic best. The 3-2 victory, sealed by Shittu Hammed’s brilliant brace, sends the Titans surging into the semi-finals with dreams of Professor Do Easter Cup glory alive and well.
Early Dominance
Under clear skies at the Gberigbe Primary School Mini Stadium, Formidable Titans FC started the brighter of the two sides. Their early pressure paid dividends in the 22nd minute when Sanusi broke the deadlock with a clinical finish after a pinpoint assist from Shittu Hammed. The goal sent the home supporters into raptures, their chants echoing around the compact venue.
The Titans’ goalkeeper, wearing the No. 1 jersey, was called into action several times in the first half, making a series of important saves that demonstrated why he’s considered one of the Professor Do Tournament’s finest shot-stoppers. However, his enthusiasm earned him a yellow card shortly before halftime after a heated exchange with the referee.
United Talent’s Resurgence
The second half began with United Talent showing renewed determination. Their persistence was rewarded in the 57th minute when their No. 14 found space in the Titans’ penalty area and slotted home a composed finish to level the scores.
The momentum had clearly shifted, and just eleven minutes later, United Talent completed their comeback. Their talismanic No. 10 produced a moment of individual brilliance, weaving through the Titans’ defense before firing an unstoppable shot into the top corner to make it 2-1.
Drama Unfolds
With their backs against the wall, Formidable Titans FC responded like true champions. The turning point came in the 72nd minute when they were awarded a penalty after a hand ball in the box. Shittu Hammed stepped up to the spot, displaying nerves of steel as he coolly converted to restore parity.
The drama intensified moments later when Titans’ goalkeeper received his second yellow card, resulting in his expulsion. Down to ten men and with their regular goalkeeper off the pitch, the Titans faced an uphill battle.
Hammed’s Heroics
Rather than wilting under pressure, the numerical disadvantage seemed to galvanize the Titans. In the 82nd minute, Ganiu Ayuba delivered a sublime cross that found Shittu Hammed perfectly positioned at the far post. With the goalkeeper beaten, Hammed directed a powerful header into the net, completing both his brace and an incredible comeback.
The final minutes were a masterclass in defensive resilience as the ten men of Formidable Titans FC repelled wave after wave of United Talent attacks. When the final whistle blew, the jubilant Titans players collapsed to the turf in a mixture of exhaustion and ecstasy.
Road to Glory
“This victory shows the character of our team,” beamed Titans’ coach Adeniji Abiodun after the match. “To come from behind with ten men against such a quality opponent speaks volumes about our determination and spirit. We’re honored to advance in the prestigious Professor Do Easter Cup.”
The Titans now advance to the Professor Do Easter Cup semi-finals where they’ll face another stern test of their championship credentials. Based on today’s performance, they have firmly established themselves as serious contenders for the prestigious trophy.
As for United Talent, they depart the tournament with heads held high, having contributed magnificently to what will surely be remembered as one of the Professor Do Easter Cup’s most thrilling quarter-finals in recent memory.
Formidable Titans FC 3-2 United Talent Scorers: Sanusi (22′), Shittu Hammed (72′ pen, 82′) | United Talent No. 14 (57′), No. 10 (68′)
