Crown 74 Football Competition Advances to Semi-Finals in Akure

By Kanu Samuel 

The second edition of the Crown 74 Football Competition has reached the semi-final stage following exciting quarter-final encounters at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.

Ebile FC progressed after overcoming Ijapo Ages Stars 5–4 on penalties, with regulation time ending in a goalless draw.

In another quarter-final at the same venue, Benfad FC booked a semi-final showdown with Ebile FC after edging Wonder Lion 3–1 in a penalty shootout, following a 1–1 draw in regulation time.

Earlier matches saw Saint FC secure a 2–0 victory over Royal Goldwin to set up a semi-final clash against Victory Lions, scheduled for today (Tuesday). Victory Lions also sealed their place in the last four after defeating SGIC 4–1 on penalties after a 1–1 draw at full time.

The semi-final matches are slated for Tuesday and Wednesday at the Ondo State Sports Complex.

Before the matches, a minute of silence was observed and all teams wore black armbands in honor of David Elijah, one of the participating players who tragically lost his life in a fatal accident on Friday while returning from training.

The Chief Organiser of the competition, Gabriel Olatunji, congratulated the teams that advanced, praising their efforts and commitment. He described all participants as winners and encouraged them to remain disciplined and dedicated both on and off the field.

“I appreciate the support and cooperation shown by everyone since the start of the competition. We will continue to address areas where improvements are needed,” he said.