The second edition of the All Stars Unity Cup is set for an exciting conclusion as newcomers Evergreen All Stars and Araromi FC prepare to battle it out in the final, both vying to dethrone last year’s champions, Liberty Stars.
Evergreen All Stars, making their debut in the tournament, secured their place in the final after a tense semifinal encounter. The match against Linda Sweet Athletics FC ended in a goalless draw, leading to a dramatic penalty shootout, where Evergreen emerged victorious with a 2-0 win. This hard-fought victory demonstrated their resilience and determination to claim the title.
On the other hand, Araromi FC’s journey to the final was more straightforward. They faced Samba FC in the semifinal, securing a 2-0 victory with a dominant performance that showcased their potential to lift the cup in their first final appearance.
The All Stars Unity Cup began on August 10, featuring 16 teams divided into four groups. The tournament has provided weeks of thrilling football action, culminating in the final set to take place at the Agidingbi Grammar School field on Saturday, August 31, at 9 a.m.
Ikenna Anene, President of Liberty Stars and organiser of the tournament, expressed his satisfaction with the level of competition and the camaraderie displayed by all participating teams. “It has been a great time together with all the teams coming together as one,” Anene stated. “The quality of matches has been impressive, and it’s a testament to the competitiveness of the tournament that last year’s defending champions couldn’t make it through.”
The final match is expected to draw attention from football enthusiasts and dignitaries alike, with several of Nigeria’s ex-internationals anticipated to attend. Anene also took the opportunity to extend his gratitude to the tournament’s major sponsor, DTO Industries, along with other sponsors including Star Plus Battery, The Place, Zion Safety, Paulvic Inter-Link Limited, Grej Table Water, Flash Change, LifeWorth HMO, Crestpart Nigeria Ltd, Dee-Dove, Jeffrock Hotels, and others who have contributed to the success of the championship.
As Evergreen All Stars and Araromi FC prepare to clash in this highly anticipated final, the stage is set for an enthralling showdown that will determine the new champions of the All Stars Unity Cup.