By Aderonke Ojo
The 2026 Delta State FA Cup has kicked in earnest with all the matches which held o the opening day ending in goalless draws with penalties eventually separating the opponents.
The matches played which held at the Oleh Township Stadium, saw The Young Soccer Academy of Issele Uku advancing to the round of 16 after beating Bumaphil Football Club of Kwale 6-5 in a penalty shoot out after regulation time had ended in a goalless draw.
It was the same result in the second match of the day as Lord Honour Football Club of Warri kept its honour intact after overcoming a resilient Winsome Football Club of Gbaramatu 5-4 in a penalty shoot out after the game had ended goalless in regulation time.
The clash between Morak Football Club of UVWIE and Excellent Football Club of Ughelli which was dubbed the star match of the day lived up to its billing as both sides kept spectators on the edge of their seats for the duration of the fierce encounter which eventually ended goalless in regulation time.
The match went into penalties with Morak Football Club converting all their kicks to win 5-4 to also advance to the round of 16.
Chairman of the Delta State Football Association Chief Godwin Adode describes the quality of football on display in the opening matches as intense and fluid saying the teams had shown great improvement from last year’s edition stressing that the Coaches had put in so much work hence the tight score lines recorded.
Chief Adode lauded Arthur Ferdinand Limited for partnering with the DFA this year saying the 5 million naira prize money for the winner and 3 million naira for the runner up had heightened the competitiveness among the teams thereby raising the standard of the game.
The Captain of Morak Football Club Edwin Tega Blessing who won the Ofughara Man of the Match award, expressed delight in his sides progression at the expense of Excellent Football Club saying they knew each well and knew it was going to be a tough encounter.
He however expressed confidence in his sides quest to reach the finals saying the quality in the team and the dedication of the players would see them through.
Meanwhile Godstime Adara a defender for Excellent Football Club who was a standout player for his side described the loss as painful saying it would however inspire them to work harder and prepare better for the next edition of the Federations Cup.
