COD United hit Lagos State FA Cup final

AMATEUR Division One side, COD United, is through to the final of the state Challenge Cup for the first time at the expense of Eleven Strikers FC, in the process picking up one of the two available slots to represent the state at the Federation Cup.The state FA Cup finalist had to come from behind to force extra time after regulation time ended 1-1 and ran out 4-1 winner on penalties to book a date with defending champion, First Bank FC, which defeated Bolowotan FC of Ikorodu by a lone goal in the other semi-final.COD dominated the early exchanges in the game played at the FIFA legacy pitch in Surulere but could not break the deadlock due to its prolificacy in front of goal, as it wasted begging chances. However, it was handed a lifeline in the 41st minute when Hilary Nwosu brought down Taofeek Saka in the area, but centre-back Agboola Babatundes spot kick was superbly saved by Chimaobim Onanogbu to keep scores goalless at half time.The frenetic pace of the second stanza was similar to what obtained in the first half with Eleven Strikers showing more purpose and endeavour, which was soon rewarded 10 minutes later after CODs defensive midfielder, Chinedu Obinor, brought down lanky striker Ekene Duru. Midfield maestro, Ismail Bakare, kept his nerves to convert the spot-kick and give his side the lead.Having gone a goal behind, COD stepped up its game and soon got the reward for persistence 15 minutes from time when Anthony Evipaker brought down Shakiru Jolaoso in the box. Hero of the last round, Segun Alabi, tucked away the resultant penalty to peg Eleven Strikers back, thus setting up a tense final few minutes for both sides.That was how it stood till full and extra time and the dreaded penalty shootout was employed. Alabi emerged the star of the show again as he saved a spot kick to help his team into the Challenge Cup final. It was CODs fourth penalty shootout win in a row in the competition, which is a remarkable feat.Up next for the team is the final match against defending champion and professional league side, First Bank, which comes up at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere this weekend.
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