Newcomers Gwollu Ultimate Shock Real 24 Hours in Fiery Division II Opener
Newly promoted Gwollu Ultimate FC made a dream start to their Division II campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over last season’s middle league contenders, Real 24 Hours FC, in an intense encounter that had everything, goals, cards, and drama.
The match began with high energy as Gwollu Ultimate drew first blood in the 5th minute, when Razak Mohammed confidently converted a penalty after a defensive lapse from Real 24 Hours. The visitors responded well and levelled the score in the 26th minute, also from the spot, with Lamin Ibrahim keeping his composure to bring Real back into the game.
The second half, however, turned turbulent for Real 24 Hours. Just a minute after the restart, their defender Koriwie Aziz was shown a red card, reducing the side to ten men. Moments later, Team Manager Khalid Batong was also sent off following a touchline altercation, leaving the visitors visibly unsettled.
With the numerical advantage, Gwollu Ultimate pressed on and were rewarded in the 76th minute when Abukari Safiu Banu unleashed a brilliant direct free kick that sailed past the goalkeeper, sealing all three points for the newcomers.
The victory marks a remarkable debut for Gwollu Ultimate in the top flight of the local division, sending a strong message to other teams in Zone 3. For Real 24 Hours, the defeat serves as an early wake-up call as they aim to bounce back in their next fixture.
By Haruna Kuri Kaayi