Home-based Eagles edge spirited Seamoriow FC in friendly thriller

Seamoriow FC, famously known as the Inspired Boys, once again demonstrated their rising stature in Nigerian football, delivering a spirited performance against the home-based Super Eagles in a friendly match played in Ikenne. Despite narrowly losing 3-2 to the Eagles, Seamoriow FC left an indelible mark with their resilience, flair, and determination.

Fresh off their triumphant campaign in the inaugural Peace Cup Scouting Tournament, Seamoriow FC faced a formidable test against the experienced Eagles, who were playing on home soil. The Inspired Boys started cautiously, showing respect to their illustrious opponents, and the Eagles, who used the game to prepare for their crucial CHAN qualifier against Ghana, capitalised on this to score in the 18th and 38th minutes.

However, just before halftime, Ridwan Popoola, one of Seamoriow FC’s standout talents, halved the deficit with a composed finish in the 42nd minute, signalling the Inspired Boys’ intent to compete. Their momentum was briefly interrupted when the Eagles restored their two-goal cushion during additional time at the end of the first half.

In the second half, Seamoriow FC returned to the pitch revitalised and determined. Urged on by Head Coach Joseph Popoola, the Inspired Boys took control of the game, playing with confidence and creativity. Their efforts paid off in the 77th minute when Popoola struck again to complete his brace, reducing the deficit to 3-2.

Despite relentless pressure in the closing stages, Seamoriow FC couldn’t find the equaliser, but their performance earned widespread admiration.

After the match, Coach Popoola praised his players’ fighting spirit and ability to adapt to the challenge. “This match was arranged on short notice after a scouting program we were supposed to attend was canceled. Thanks to the Chairman’s intervention, we secured this friendly against the home-based Eagles,” Popoola explained.

“In the first half, the boys gave too much respect to the Eagles, and that cost us early goals. But during halftime, I encouraged them to be expressive and enjoy the game. In the second half, they showed tremendous character and played without fear. It’s performances like this that give me confidence in their potential,” the coach added.

Popoola also acknowledged the pivotal role of Seamoriow FC Chairman Oluwaseyi Amos. “The Chairman has been incredibly supportive, morally, financially, and otherwise. His efforts continue to give these boys the platform and exposure they need to grow.”

This performance is the latest chapter in the Inspired Boys’ remarkable journey. Established in July 2023, the club recently captured the Peace Cup Scouting Tournament title after defeating FC Bethel Sporting 2-0 in the final. Their success has cemented their reputation as one of Nigeria’s most promising grassroots teams.

Speaking about the club’s ambitions, Chairman Amos said, “I am very impressed with the performance of the boys, they showed character in the game and this is what we have encouraged in the team. Our emphasis and philiosophy is not only centered around just winning games, even though that is very vital, however, we are also keen about the progress that our players make on an individual basis and how they develop in the right way. We are building a team that will not only compete but also create pathways for our players to secure professional contracts abroad. How our boys fared and compete in matches like this test match indicates that we are on the right track, and the world is starting to take notice of Seamoriow FC.”

As the Inspired Boys continue to grow, their fearless display against the Home-Based Eagles underscores their readiness to compete at higher levels. Seamoriow FC is proving to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring talents, reaffirming the immense potential within Nigerian grassroots football.