In a friendly encounter held at the University of Ibadan on 29 August 2025, Soccer For All (SFA) faced a challenging match against Zion Liberty, ultimately succumbing to a 4-1 defeat. The match kicked off at 9:30 am, with both teams eager to showcase their skills in this neutral setting.
SFA lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flexibility. Victor Abikoye took his place in goal, shielded by a back three comprising Chukwuemeka Ekemezie, Siyanbade Adedamola, and David Jay-Jay. The midfield was anchored by Daniel Alonge and Abdulsomod Kolawole in central roles, flanked by Emmanuel Osunleke on the right and Obaloluwa Opara on the left. The attacking trio featured Abdul-samad Adewole and Richard Adetunji supporting striker Emmanuel Okedigba.
The substitutes for SFA included Eme Asuquo, Ebuka Akandu, Obinna Kingsley, and Peter Adeoti, who would be called upon later in the match as the team sought to turn the tide.
The match began with a shocking start for SFA, as Zion Liberty capitalised on a defensive error just four minutes in, taking an early lead. The SFA defence, still settling into the match, was caught off guard, allowing the opponents to score with relative ease.
The situation worsened for SFA as Zion Liberty struck again in the 16th minute, once more exploiting a lapse in concentration within the SFA backline. The mounting pressure was evident, and SFA struggled to find their rhythm in the opening exchanges.
As the first half progressed, Zion Liberty continued to dominate, and in the 31st minute, they added a third goal, leaving SFA in a precarious position as they headed towards half-time. The team needed a significant shift in momentum to salvage the match.
In a tactical move, SFA made their first substitution just before the break, bringing on Eme Asuquo for Chukwuemeka Ekemezie in the 42nd minute. This change aimed to bolster the defence and provide fresh legs as they sought to regroup.
The half-time whistle blew with the score at 3-0 in favour of Zion Liberty, leaving SFA with a mountain to climb in the second half.
Upon resumption, SFA made another change in the 50th minute, introducing Ebuka Akandu for Abdulsomod Kolawole. This substitution was intended to inject some creativity into the midfield as SFA looked to mount a comeback.
The breakthrough for SFA finally came in the 61st minute when Emmanuel Okedigba converted a penalty, giving the team a glimmer of hope. The goal sparked renewed energy among the players and supporters alike, as SFA aimed to build on this momentum.
However, Zion Liberty responded swiftly, and in the 63rd minute, SFA made another tactical substitution, bringing on Obinna Kingsley for Emmanuel Osunleke. This change was part of a strategy to increase attacking options as SFA pushed for a second goal.
As the match wore on, SFA continued to press forward, but their efforts were met with resolute defending from Zion Liberty. In the 74th minute, SFA made their final substitution, with Peter Adeoti replacing Richard Adetunji, as they sought to find the net once more.
Despite their efforts, Zion Liberty sealed their victory with a fourth goal in the 96th minute, putting the result beyond doubt. The match concluded with SFA on the wrong end of a 4-1 scoreline, leaving them with much to ponder as they look to improve in future fixtures.
