Kicker Football Club of Abuja defeated Gbayi FC of Kabusa 3–1 on Wednesday in the Group C opening match of the ongoing sixth edition of the Unity Cup 2025, held at the Area 3 football pitch, Abuja.
The tournament is organised by the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) Football Coaches Council.
The match got off to an electrifying start as Andrew Yusuf of Gbayi FC scored the opening goal in the third minute. However, Kicker FC equalised in the 32nd minute through a well-placed effort by Silas Ubebe.
Kehinde Mustapha then converted a free kick in the 39th minute to put Kicker FC ahead 2–1 before the break.
On resumption, both sides displayed strong defensive efforts, but Abdullahi Mohammed sealed the win for Kicker FC in the 53rd minute with a precise finish, bringing the final score to 3–1.
Speaking after the match, Kicker FC head coach Dare Adesomo expressed satisfaction with the result.
“I believe we have the quality to win convincingly,” he said. “We are still building, addressing our weaknesses, and hope to return stronger in subsequent games. We reached the semi-finals in 2024, and this year we are determined to go even further. With five teams in Group C and only two qualifying spots, every match counts.”
Kicker FC share Group C with Gbayi FC, G-Medix FC, Eagles Wings Football Academy, and Young Professionals FC.
Kicker FC are scheduled to face G-Medix FC at 12 p.m. on Friday, again at the Area 3 pitch.
In another fixture at the same venue, Eagles Wings Football Academy of Gwarinpa defeated Young Professionals FC 2–0, with goals from Jude Ogbonna in the 65th minute and Job Daniel four minutes later.
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Eagles Wings head coach Rasheed Sadiq commended the organisers for providing a platform for young talent.
“This is a good competition and it’s great to see young players getting involved,” he said. “This is our third appearance – we exited at the group stage in our debut and reached the quarter-finals last year. I encourage my players to continue their hard work and dedication.”
Meanwhile, defending champions Gwarinpa United FC suffered a 5–3 defeat to Jubril FC in Tuesday’s tournament opener.
A total of 23 teams are participating in the tournament, which runs until 23 June.
