FC Ebedei left-back Kennedy John was the hero of the day as his brilliant performance fired the Oliseh Boys into the semi-finals of the 13th Gold Cup tournament. Kennedy scored twice from the spot to inspire a 2-1 comeback win over GreenLock FC at the FC Ebedei Stadium in Apele-Sagamu.
GreenLock took an early lead in the seventh minute through Aminu Abdullah’s fine half-volley that left goalkeeper Abdulgani Ishola with no chance. However, FC Ebedei fought back strongly in the second half, and Kennedy John showed composure to convert two penalties, completing a spirited turnaround that earned him the Player of the Match award.
Kennedy, who began his football journey at Blessed Stars Academy, Uyo, was scouted and moved to FC Ebedei, where he has developed into one of the most promising teenagers in Nigerian football. His performances at the Gold Cup have been outstanding, and with his brace against GreenLock, the talented left-back now boasts four goals in the competition.
The result saw FC Ebedei advance to the semi-finals at the expense of Sunshine Stars, who failed to hold their advantage in their own fixture. Sunshine Stars, who needed a win to progress, drew 1-1 against Abakaliki FC despite taking the lead through Chuks Adoha in the 48th minute. Jude Aleke’s free-kick equaliser in the 59th minute ended their campaign.
With the results, Sporting Lagos and FC Ebedei progressed from Group A with nine points each, though Sporting Lagos finished top on head-to-head advantage, having beaten FC Ebedei 2-1 earlier in the group.
In Group B, Lobi Stars thrashed Seamoriow FC 5-1 to qualify with seven points and a +6 goal difference, while Crown FC clinched top spot after a late 84th-minute winner from Fabode Olaitan sealed a 2-1 victory over Ekiti United.
The four teams — Sporting Lagos, Crown FC, Lobi Stars, and FC Ebedei — have now booked their places in the semi-finals, setting up two exciting fixtures. Wednesday has been declared a rest day, with the semi-final action resuming on Thursday as the race for the Gold Cup trophy heats up.