By Abubakar Hassan
Bida and Munya local government teams have emerged as the finalists of the 2023 edition of the Niger State Governor's Cup football competition, tagged "Bida 2023".
Bida local government defeated Kontagora local government by a lone goal in the first semi-final match decided at the Lapai Football Academy Mini Stadium, Kobo campus of IBB University, Lapai.
On the other hand, the resilient Munya local government team edged out the Mokwa local government team by 9-8 via penalty shootout as both teams tied one all at regulation time, in the second semi-final match decided at the same venue on Sunday.
In a post-match reaction shortly after his team's victory, the council Chairman of Bida local government, Hon. Bala Shaba said he was optimistic that his team was going to carry the day even before the start of the game and appreciated God for granting them the victory.
He disclosed that the harmonized unity among the players who played for a collective goal led them to victory, urging them not to lose focus on their main target which is to come first in the championship.
"I want them to put more effort in the finals, particularly as the final is going to take place at our home ground," he added.
Similarly, the director of sports, Bida local government who is also a junior ex-international, Yakubu Alfa, MON, said it was a sweet victory for them, particularly the youths of Bida who trooped into Lapai in their large numbers to cheer the team to victory.
On the finals, he said they will return home to strategize how they will approach the final match and expressed optimism that it will be in their favour as they will be playing in front of their home fans.
His part shortly after his team's victory, the council Chairman of Munya local government, Hon. Aminu Najume said it was a joyful moment for the entire soccer-loving Munyalite Haven who came from behind to win the match through penalties.
He said he was calm, as he was confident the team would carry the day when it came to penalty shootouts because he has confidence in his players.
The council Chairman also charged his boys to be calm, resolute, play safe, and go for the gold during the final match, saying the 2023 Governor's Cup is going to Munya, and promising that he has a special gift for them.
On his part, the Chairman of the Niger State Football Association (NSFA), Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh said the two semi-final matches have lived up to their expectations with the beautiful football artistry displayed by the teams.
He also commended players and officials of all the semi-finalists for the sportsmanship spirit they have exhibited during the matches which he said were keenly contested.
Comrade Yusuf Fresh also appreciated the presence of all the local government council Chairmen whose team played in the semi-final, and specifically commended the council Chairman of Lapis, Hon. Mohammed Kirikpo for accepting to host the semi-final matches and for his presence, as well as his warmth reception and hospitality accorded to the state FA officials.
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