Defending champions Ricca/Odunfa retained their title by defeating Araromi 3-1 in the final match of the third edition of the Afinni Unity Cup, held on Sunday, November 10th, 2024, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos. This victory marks Ricca/Odunfa’s second consecutive Afinni Unity Cup win.
The final match drew an impressive crowd, with dignitaries from various regions in attendance.
Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Honourable Ogunlende Mobolaji Abubakre, officially kicked off the match.
Before play began, a one-minute silence was observed in memory of a Ricca/Odunfa supporter who had passed away just three days prior, after attending the semi-final between Ricca/Odunfa and Anikantanmo/Swamp.
Fans and dignitaries alike brought vibrant energy to the arena, displaying colorful banners and participating in street showcases, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the match.
Ricca/Odunfa quickly took control of the game, with Lawal Adeshola scoring in the 13th minute after an error by Araromi’s defense. Namene Gome doubled the lead just before halftime, giving Ricca/Odunfa a solid advantage going into the break.
Ten minutes into the second half, Araromi was awarded a penalty after Sunny Ofonime was fouled in the 18-yard box. Oluwatobi of Araromi successfully converted the penalty, narrowing the score. However, Ricca/Odunfa responded with a third goal by Favour Anieke in the 42nd minute, sealing their 3-1 victory and ensuring they retained the championship title.
For their win, Ricca/Odunfa received a prize of One Million Naira, while the runner-up Araromi team was awarded Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira. The third-place team, Anikantanmo/Swamp, received Five Hundred Thousand Naira.
Awards
- Winners: Ricca/Odunfa Team
- Runners-Up: Araromi Team
- Third Place: Anikantanmo/Swamp
- Most Valuable Player: Fashola Olamilekan (Ricca/Odunfa Team)
- Highest Goal Scorer: Sunny Ofonime (Araromi Team) – 4 goals
- Best Goalkeeper: Muhammed Nasir (Okepopo/Amuto Team)
- Most Behaved Supporter: Faji/Evans Community
- Best Defender: Lateef Kuseyin (Araromi Team)
- Best Referee: Ese Williams
- Fair Play Award: Ebute Elefun Team
The Afinni Unity Cup final was a remarkable event, highlighting both the talent and unity within the community, while showcasing the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship among participants.
