N-Youth League: ABS FC Secures a Hard-Fought Draw Against AS Roma Academy in Abuja



The N-Youth League witnessed a captivating clash as Abubakar Bukola Saraki Football Club (ABS FC) from Ilorin held the AS Roma Academy to a 1-1 draw at the main bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. This opening match showcased the determination and resilience of both teams as they embarked on their Nigeria National U-19 Youth League campaign on Tuesday.

First Half: Stalemate Despite Intensity

The match began with high expectations as the Saraki Boys entered the field with a clear objective: to secure a victory in their first league outing. Despite their aggressive approach, they maintained a strong defensive stance, showing a balanced game plan that combined attacking intent with defensive solidity.

From the outset, AS Roma Academy took the initiative, pushing forward with a series of attacks aimed at breaking down the ABS FC defense. However, the visitors from Ilorin were prepared for the onslaught. Their well-organized backline, marshaled by a disciplined defensive unit, thwarted several promising attacks from the home side. Goalkeeper Waheed Saheed was particularly impressive, making crucial saves to keep the game goalless.

As the first half progressed, ABS FC began to find their rhythm, gradually building their own offensive moves. Despite a few promising chances, they couldn’t find the back of the net, and the first half ended in a 0-0 stalemate.

Second Half: Drama and Goals

The second half resumed with renewed vigor from both sides. The game’s tempo increased as both teams sought to break the deadlock. The midfield battle became intense, with players from both teams showing skill and determination to gain control of the game.

The breakthrough finally came for ABS FC in a dramatic fashion. Abdulrasheed Usman capitalized on a rare mistake by the AS Roma Academy goalkeeper. Pouncing on the opportunity, Usman coolly slotted the ball into the net, giving ABS FC a deserved lead. The goal sparked celebrations among the visiting supporters, who had been eagerly anticipating a moment of brilliance from their team.

With the lead secured, ABS FC switched to a more conservative approach, focusing on protecting their advantage. They absorbed pressure from AS Roma Academy, who were desperate to find an equalizer. The home team created several chances but were repeatedly thwarted by a resolute ABS FC defense and the impressive shot-stopping of goalkeeper Waheed Saheed.

Late Equalizer: Captain’s Heroics

Just as it seemed that ABS FC would leave the capital city with all three points, AS Roma Academy’s captain, Odigbo Grey, produced a moment of magic. In stoppage time, Grey unleashed a stunning 35-yard strike that soared into the top corner of the net. Despite Saheed’s best efforts, the ball was out of his reach, and the match was leveled at 1-1.

The late equalizer was a heartbreaker for ABS FC, who had defended valiantly throughout the match. Nonetheless, the quality of Grey’s strike was undeniable, and it brought the game to a dramatic conclusion.

Post-Match Reactions: A Tale of Mixed Emotions

After the match, ABS FC coach Babatunde Toafeeq expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance. He acknowledged the challenges his players faced, especially considering that many of them were playing outside Ilorin for the first time.

“I am okay with the results of the game because most of the players haven’t gone out of Ilorin to play anywhere,” Toafeeq said. “This is a league – for them to key into the pattern we played for the first time; 3-5-2 defensively, which was what we came to do. To see them and study how they play and then hit them on the counter. But to me, individually, in a unit, and the group play was okay for me.”

He emphasized the importance of the experience gained from the match and assured that the team would continue to build on this foundation in future games. “We go back to the drawing board and continue to work so that they can properly key into the pattern. We will be at home now and will find another kind of way of playing,” he added.

Goal scorer Abdulrasheed Usman, while pleased with his goal, expressed disappointment over the result. “It is the striker’s duty to score and to help the team, and I am happy to have gotten the goal, but sadly we were unable to defend it,” Usman remarked. “But it happens, and we will go back home with the point.”

Looking Ahead: Building Momentum

The 1-1 draw is a fair reflection of a closely contested match between two teams brimming with young talent. For ABS FC, the result is a positive start to their campaign, as they aim to establish themselves as strong contenders in the Nigeria National U-19 Youth League. Coach Toafeeq’s side will take valuable lessons from this encounter as they prepare for their next challenge.

Meanwhile, AS Roma Academy will also take solace in their fighting spirit, having salvaged a point at the death. Their resilience and ability to score from long range will be a key asset as the league progresses.

As the N-Youth League unfolds, both teams will look to build on this performance, aiming to refine their strategies and climb up the league table. Fans can look forward to more thrilling encounters and the emergence of promising talents as the season progresses.

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