Royal Elite FC Struggle At NNS Victory Calabar As Ocean 11 FC Dominate 4-0

On 18 February 2025, Royal Elite Football Club travelled to NNS Victory Calabar to face Ocean 11 FC in a league away fixture that kicked off at 4:00pm. The match ended in a heavy 4-0 defeat for Royal Elite, who struggled to contain their opponents throughout the 90 minutes plus added time. The attendance was a modest 70 spectators, and the referee’s performance was notably poor, rated just 20.

Royal Elite lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, aiming to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. Emmanuel Asuquo took his place between the sticks as goalkeeper, protected by a back four consisting of Saviour Eno Williams at right back, Jerry Ambassador and Emmanuel Ini as central defenders, and Emmanuel Ekurichang on the left. In midfield, Emediong Samuel and Samuel Aniedi were tasked with controlling the centre of the park, providing both defensive cover and distribution. Ahead of them, Christian Ekong operated as the attacking midfielder, expected to link play and create chances. The forward line featured Abbey Collins on the right, Kenneth Ngwu leading the line as striker, and Osang Hopewell on the left, all charged with breaking down Ocean 11’s defence. No substitutes were named for Royal Elite.

The first half saw Royal Elite struggle to impose themselves as Ocean 11 FC dominated possession and territory. Despite the defensive shape, the visitors found it difficult to contain the fluid attacking movements of their hosts. The half ended goalless, but the signs were ominous for Royal Elite as Ocean 11 FC looked the more threatening side.

After the break, Ocean 11 FC’s superiority became more pronounced. They opened the scoring with a well-worked goal that exposed Royal Elite’s defensive frailties. The visitors’ backline, despite the efforts of Ambassador and Ini centrally, was repeatedly breached by Ocean 11’s incisive passing and movement. The full-backs, Williams and Ekurichang, found themselves isolated as the hosts exploited the flanks.

As the match progressed, Ocean 11 FC added three more goals, each highlighting different weaknesses in Royal Elite’s setup. The midfield pairing of Samuel and Aniedi struggled to contain the hosts’ creative threats, allowing Christian Ekong limited influence in the attacking third. The forward trio of Collins, Ngwu, and Hopewell were starved of service and unable to mount any meaningful pressure on the Ocean 11 goalkeeper.

Royal Elite’s goalkeeper, Asuquo, was kept busy but ultimately could do little to prevent the onslaught. The defensive unit was overwhelmed on multiple occasions, and the lack of substitutes meant no tactical adjustments could be made to stem the tide.

The match concluded with Ocean 11 FC comfortably securing a 4-0 victory, leaving Royal Elite to reflect on a difficult afternoon at NNS Victory Calabar. The visitors will need to regroup and address their defensive organisation and attacking creativity if they are to improve their fortunes in upcoming fixtures.