In a pulsating friendly clash but controversial officiating at the Coca-Cola Football Pitch in Aba, home side Inter FC Aba narrowly edged past Giant Brillars FC with a 2-1 victory in what was a fiercely contested encounter between two Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO) teams.
Aside the controversial officiating The match lived up to its billing as a high-profile preseason test, with both teams showing attacking intent from the start. It was the hosts who broke the deadlock in the 30th minute when Chinwekele Ubani capitalized on a defensive mix-up to slot home and put Inter FC in front.
However, the Coach John-Kingsley Echendu tutored side responded almost immediately, showing resilience and tactical discipline. Just two minutes after conceding, Chimezie Ubah restored parity with a stunning rebound strike from outside the box, leaving the Inter FC goalkeeper with no chance.
The second half turned into a tactical battle, with Giant Brillars dominating possession, dictating the tempo with intricate passing sequences, and launching waves of attacks. However, Inter FC Aba remained disciplined, soaking up pressure and looking to hit their opponents on the counter.
The decisive moment came in the 86th minute when super-sub Bright Chigaemu latched onto a quick counterattack and fired home the match-winner, sealing victory for Inter FC.
With the first leg done and dusted, both teams will now turn their attention to the return fixture in Owerri, where pride and bragging rights will be on the line.
