Debutant Discovery Talents FA have booked a place in the final of the 2025 AMAPRO Football Championship after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Laycon FA in Saturday’s semi-final in Ilorin.
The talented boys from Kebbi State have been the surprise package of this year’s tournament with their sloppy start.
In what was anticipated to be an explosive encounter, Discovery Talent FA and Laycon FA gave the spectators a memorable showpiece with an early exchange.
However, the pulsating encounter was only decided by a lone goal in the first half, thanks to smart finish by Suleiman Muhammed who dispatched a through pass beyond the stretching arms of Laycon’s goalkeeper, Toheeb Nasiru.
Despite spirited attempts by Laycon FA to draw level, Discovery’s defence held firm, staying disciplined and organized to protect their narrow lead and secure passage to the final of the 10th edition of the AMAPRO tournament.
Discovery Talent FA will now face House of Prayer FA, who saw off Gateway FA in a dramatic first semi-final earlier in the day.
Earlier in the first semi-final, House of Prayer FC edged Gateway FA 2-1 in a thrilling encounter.
The breakthrough came at the half hour mark when Gateway goalkeeper Fapohunda Tunde failed to deal with a routine cross, allowing Adama Isaiah to head home and open the scoring. The goal took Isaiah’s tally in the tournament to five, making him the current top scorer.
HOP extended their lead in the 68th minute through a moment of individual brilliance from Adikpe Samuel, who fired in a long-range rocket that left the goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
Gateway FA fought back late in the game and gave themselves hope when Ogunsusi Folajimi curled in a sensational long-range free kick in the 89th minute.
However, House of Prayer FC held on to clinch the victory and seal a spot in the final.
Sunday’s final will be a rematch of the Group D opener between House of Prayer FC and Discovery Talents FA, which ended in a stalemate. This time, a winner must emerge.
The final will also witness the presentation of the awards for the King of AMAPRO and Prince of AMAPRO.
Top dignitaries in football circles are expected to grace the final that is expected to leave lasting memories in the heart of soccer loving fans and stakeholders in Kwara State and Nigeria.
