Amanyanabo Cup: Ibani United Retains Title in Nailbiter Final

The curtain has fallen on what has been a cracker of a tournament, with Ibani United emerging as 3-2 victors over Young Talents in the final of the 2024 Amanyanabo Football Tournament, today, December 13, 2024.

The final of the 2024 Amanyanabo Football Tournament was a repeat of last year’s, and Young Talents, despite putting up a fight, could not outdo the two-time champions and consecutive three-time finalists.

The event, which began on Saturday, November 30, saw 16 teams vie for the ultimate prize, with 15 of them aiming to unseat defending champions Ibani United from the race, but ultimately to no avail.

Ibani United retained their champion status, Young Talents settled for silver yet again, and debutants Oloma FC finished as bronze medalists. Benedict Pepple emerged as the most valuable player, scoring nine goals, two of which were hat-tricks – with one of the hat-tricks coming in the opener.

TO THE FINAL, PROPER.

Ibani United took the lead through MVP Benedict Pepple in the 21st minute and maintained the lead until the second half, when Chibuzor Michael netted the equalizer in the 53rd minute for Young Talents. Twelve minutes later, Ibani United regained the lead as Allison Lawrence slotted in the goal.

With six minutes of regulation time left to play, Rogers Benstowe found the back of the net for the all-important equalizer that brought hope and joy to the faithful of Young Talents. However, the hope and joy were short-lived, as Emmanuel Harold scored the winner three minutes later to secure back-to-back titles for the consecutive three-time finalist, Ibani United. 

Ibani United smiled to the bank with three million naira, Young Talents with two million and Oloma FC with one million naira.