Nania Win FA Cup

Victorious FC Nania players

Abedi Pele’s Nania FC yesterday clinched their maiden FA Cup silverware after producing a spirited extra-time performance to beat Asante Kotoko 1-0 at the Accra Stadium.

The victory denied Kotoko the chance to play in Africa and it was their second streak silverware loss at the same venue in three weeks.

It was Felix Baffoe who broke the deadlock after 107 minutes of pure soccer action with a beautiful back-heel to outwit goalkeeper Soulama Abdulai.

The Division One customers survived the incessant pressure Kotoko mounted, especially in the first half of regulation time, with goalkeeper Michael Sai rising to the occasion.

Nania restarted the game and demonstrated predatory instincts but Kotoko’s Burkinabe import, Soulama’s interventions were timely.

Considered the underdogs by experts before the game, Nania had conquered Juantex FC in the prelims. They extended their dominance to the round of 64 where they mauled Mighty Youngsters 4-0, and defeated Kintampo Zamalek 1-0 at the round of 32.

They proved superior over George Afriyie’s Unity FC, defeating them 1-0 in the round of 16, and then recorded a 1-0 win over D. International at the quarter final stage of the MTN sponsored competition.

Nania attracted the attention of the game’s connoisseurs after sending league leaders Berekum Chelsea packing in the senifinals, when they defeated them 5-3 on penalties after a pulsating 2-2 game in regulation time.

In all, they scored 11 goals and conceded just two and for their efforts, they were decorated with medals, received a trophy and a GH¢20,000 cash prize.

Kotoko, the defending champions, having won the competition eight times- one short of Accra Hearts of  Oak- on the other hand went past teams like Danbot FC, Depotivo, Heart of Lions, Aduana Stars and Wa All Stars to get to the final played yesterday.

They took home medals and a GH¢10,000 cash prize as their reward.

By Kofi Owusu Aduonum