Iwo Utd have been crowned the 2024 champions of the maiden SmartCity Osun State Football League courtesy of their 2-1 win over ambitious rival, Elebuibon Boyz.
The two sides coming off unscathed following a week hostilities at the Super 8. Brimming with confidence and candour, Iwo Utd approached their 18th final league game unbeaten as bookmakers were perfectly right after the regulations time, tipping Iwo Utd. for the honor.
Elebuibon Boyz nearly settled down in the opening stages and had to fall behind owing to a double tragedy, defensive mishap and breakdown in communication in Elebuibon vital area as gangling Ridwan broke the deadlock early enough.
Iwo Utd's brilliance continues as the early goal unsettles Rasheed Iyiola tutored side who couldn't provide the parity despite their solid performance going into the break.
Soccer loving fans continued to enjoy every moment as Super Eagles Supporters Club charged the atmosphere with classical tunes and energetic performance.
United picked it up from where they left it upon resumption, as images of travail of the trailing sides continue deep into second stanza as Rasheed Iyiola reshuffled his charges.
Ridwan was simply too much, flicking on the afterburners, making his moves, including a jaw-dropping stop-and-go nutmeg on Elebuibon Boyz as he grabbed his brace twenty minutes from time. Sanni Yusuf reduced the deficit eight minutes from time as Elebuibon Boyz regained their full confidence and sharpness, missing two vital goals at the death.
Taiwo Lukman side and their teeming fans went into frenzy following the final whistle.
Earlier, NFF President Alh. Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON., who was on a two day working visit to the state advocated for more grassroots programs and worthy infrastructures saying, it remains the foundational success of Nigeria's football.
He afterwards presented dummy cheque of One Million Naira and Giants Trophy to Iwo Utd skipper. On individual level, Temitope Olalekan of Iwo Utd scooped highest goal scorer award, having scores 13 goals in the league. Winjobi Abiodun was voted player's of the tournament while Hommydays goalkeeper Fajumobi Fashina was presented with tournaments best golden gloves.
The glamour and glitz that accompanied the final event would continue to remain a significant step as Sola Fanawopo led board continues to reshape the football ecosystem in the state.
In attendance, NFF President, Alh. Ibrahim Musa Gusau MON., NFF second Vice President Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, NFF Executive Board Members, Alh. G. Majekodunmi and Otunba Dele Ajayi. One time NFF 1st Vice President, Barr. Seyi Akinwunmi, South West FA Chairmen, Osun FA Board Members, Nigeria Football Coaches Associations, Nigeria Referee Associations, Sports Writers were amongst the dignitaries that graced the event.