Mateco Football Academy Draw 1-1 With FA Brave Eagles U14 In Akure

Mateco Football Academy travelled to Igoba Community High School, Akure, on 24 January 2026 for a friendly away fixture against FA Brave Eagles U14, kicking off at 2:30pm. The match ended in a 1-1 stalemate after 90 minutes of competitive football, with both sides sharing the spoils in an evenly contested encounter.

Mateco Football Academy lined up in a traditional 4-4-2 formation, aiming to balance defensive solidity with attacking intent. In goal, Ojo Goodluck was tasked with commanding the penalty area and organising the backline. The defence featured Olayemi Sheriff at right back, Joseph Favour and Ofeh Joshua as central defenders, and S. Goodluck operating on the left flank. The midfield quartet consisted of Aderibigbe Demilade on the right wing, Oladele Samuel and Joy Godpeace occupying the central midfield roles, while Feranmi M provided width on the left. Upfront, Olowo Isreal led the line on the right side of attack, partnered by Kehinde A on the left. This setup was expected to provide Mateco with both defensive cover and attacking options down the wings and through the centre. No substitutes were named for this fixture.

The match’s defining moment came just before half time when Ofeh Joshua stepped up to score a stunning direct free-kick from outside the box in the 36th minute. Using his right foot, Joshua curled the ball over the defensive wall and into the net, giving Mateco Football Academy a deserved lead after a period of sustained pressure. This goal highlighted the defender’s technical ability and composure under pressure.

Despite this advantage, the hosts responded before the break, ensuring the score was level at 1-1 by half time. The FA Brave Eagles U14 showed resilience and determination to find an equaliser, preventing Mateco from taking a lead into the interval.

Throughout the first half, Mateco’s back four remained disciplined, with Olayemi Sheriff and S. Goodluck providing width and support to the midfield. Central midfielders Oladele Samuel and Joy Godpeace worked tirelessly to link defence and attack, while the wide midfielders Aderibigbe Demilade and Feranmi M looked to supply crosses to the forwards. Olowo Isreal and Kehinde A attempted to stretch the opposition defence with their movement and pace, but were met with organised resistance.

The second half saw both teams pushing for a winner, but neither side could break the deadlock. Mateco’s defensive unit, marshalled by Joseph Favour and Ofeh Joshua, remained solid, repelling several attacks from the Brave Eagles. Meanwhile, the midfield battled hard to regain possession and create chances, though clear-cut opportunities were limited.

As the match drew to a close, the intensity remained high, but the scoreline stayed at 1-1. Both teams earned a point from this friendly encounter, with Mateco Football Academy demonstrating moments of quality, particularly from set pieces, while FA Brave Eagles U14 showed grit and determination on home soil.

In summary, Mateco Football Academy’s 4-4-2 formation allowed them to compete effectively in all areas of the pitch, with Ofeh Joshua’s spectacular free-kick standing out as the highlight. The draw reflected the competitive nature of the match and provided valuable experience for the young players involved.