By: Lawal Oluwadamilare

The Masters’ Cup final took place on Thursday 13th of April 2023 at the SUB pitch. The competition which started two years ago is for 200 Level students in the Faculty of Engineering. In this edition, after some grueling matches, the departments of Petroleum Engineering(SPE) and Wood Products Engineering qualified for the final. Both teams were evenly matched, and they proved their mettle.

Defending champions Petroleum Engineering were looking to retain their title, and they showed their hunger. They fought tirelessly against WPE throughout the duration of the duel.

The fierce attack of WPE won them a free kick in the first opening 5 mins, A corner by MJ saw the first attack by WPE put over the bar for a corner. Akinpade was threatening for WPE. and his impact was felt even though it did not yield results. Petroleum Engineering seemed toothless throughout the first half of the fixture.

In the second half, the pressure from WPE increased. Akinpade continued to constitute a nuisance in the Petroleum Engineering defense but he just could not find the final ball.

Petroleum Engineering’s best chance came in the 70th minute when Allen laid a pass forward, but the striker Bobby couldn’t find the back of the net. Both teams couldn’t find the net throughout the 90, and it was left straight out to penalties. 

The Penalty shootout was an interesting one. Petroleum Engineering missed their first kick, putting WPE in the driver’s seat. However, WPE failed to take advantage as they missed their third penalty kick. After playing their first five penalties, it proceeded into sudden death. Both teams played three kicks, but it ended when Petroleum Engineering missed their spot kick.

Ayodeji who was named the best player of the tournament shared his excitement at winning the title. “Winning the best player award for a major tournament in Tech like the master cup can be an incredible, rewarding experience for me. It shows hard work, dedication, and outstanding performance on the field,” he said.

“I also feel a great sense of gratitude towards my teammates, and fans who supported us throughout the tournament.

“Being recognized as the best player in the tournament has provided a boost of confidence in my abilities, which can help me in future competitions. Overall, being named the best player of the master cup tournament is an incredibly fulfilling and exciting experience for me.”

Also, Mjay one of the prominent players for WPE said, “I have heard of the Masters cup since when I was a 100 level student, we played for our 100 level students me and my captain, and my goalkeeper, we played the then 200 level Civil Engineering, and we could only get a point.

“What Got our team going forward is that we wanted to add more medals to our cabinets, and we are glad we won our matches, against Pet in the final they played defensively, but glory be to God, we excelled”