The semi-final lineup for the Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup has been confirmed following an action-packed conclusion to the quarter-final second-leg fixtures, with FC Babington, FC Enegwea and FC Alloy joining FC Okpara in the race for the coveted title.
FC Babington produced another commanding display, defeating FC Giwa 2-0 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena to complete a staggering 9-0 aggregate victory. Ayoola Ibrahim opened the scoring in the 20th minute from the penalty spot, calmly sending goalkeeper Basit Isiaka the wrong way with a composed finish. Substitute Miracle Chinasa added the second goal in the 44th minute with a simple tap-in, capping off another dominant performance that underlined Babington’s status as one of the tournament favourites.
At the Maracana Arena in Ajegunle, FC Enegwea overcame an early scare to defeat FC Nieketien 2-1 and book their place in the last four with a 3-1 aggregate triumph. Tobi Olubo stunned the visitors by putting Nieketien ahead in just the third minute, but Enegwea responded brilliantly. Ikechukwu Emma restored parity in the 26th minute before Prosper Udefuna struck the decisive winner in the 63rd minute to complete an impressive comeback and send his side through.
The most dramatic encounter of the day came between FC Alloy and FC Ipaye. Trailing 1-0 from the first leg, Alloy leveled the tie when Ola Shoneye fired home in the 53rd minute after a quick restart and an incisive passing move carved open the Ipaye defence. With the aggregate score locked at 1-1 after regulation time, the contest was decided by penalties, where Alloy held their nerve to claim a thrilling 4-3 shootout victory and complete a remarkable comeback.
The stage is now set for two mouthwatering semi-final fixtures. FC Babington will lock horns with FC Alloy in what promises to be a fascinating battle between the tournament’s most dominant side and its comeback specialists, while FC Enegwea will square off against FC Okpara in another highly anticipated showdown as all four teams continue their quest for Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup glory.
