Royal Elite FC Edge Uwem Ekarika Soccer Academy 4-2 In Thrilling Friendly

Royal Elite Football Club welcomed Uwem Ekarika Soccer Academy to FAANS, Calabar on 19 March 2025 for a lively friendly encounter that kicked off at 4:00pm. The home side emerged victorious with a 4-2 scoreline after 90 minutes plus six minutes of added time, showcasing attacking verve and tactical flexibility under referee Victor Udom’s impeccable control.

Royal Elite lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, deploying a solid back four with Goodluck Stanley in goal, flanked by Saviour Eno Williams at right back and Malachy Ndueso on the left. Central defence was marshalled by Emediong Samuel and Emmanuel Ini, providing a sturdy foundation. The midfield double pivot featured Christian Ekong and Goodnews Bassey tasked with both defensive cover and ball distribution. Ahead of them, John Ekpenyong operated as the attacking midfielder, linking play and creating chances. The front three consisted of Osang Hopewell on the right, Saviour (surname unknown) leading the line as striker, and Jovan Victor on the left, expected to stretch the opposition and supply goals. Emmanuel Michael and Providence Ofre were named among the substitutes.

The match began with Royal Elite asserting control through their midfield and wide players. The breakthrough came in the 33rd minute when John Ekpenyong showcased his individual brilliance with a close-range solo effort, calmly slotting the ball home with his right foot after weaving past defenders. This goal underlined Ekpenyong’s creative and goal-scoring threat from the attacking midfield role.

Just before half-time, Royal Elite doubled their advantage in the 42nd minute. Ekpenyong again was instrumental, delivering a precise long pass that found Osang Hopewell in the box. Hopewell made no mistake, tapping in from close range with his right foot to send the home crowd into raptures. This goal highlighted the effective link-up play between the attacking midfielder and the right forward.

The first half concluded with Royal Elite leading 2-0, having controlled the tempo and created the clearer chances. At the interval, the teams headed to the dressing rooms with the hosts in a commanding position.

Early in the second half, Royal Elite made tactical substitutions to freshen the squad. In the 48th minute, Emmanuel Michael replaced goalkeeper Goodluck Stanley, signalling a strategic change between the sticks. Shortly after, Providence Ofre came on for the striker Saviour, aiming to inject renewed energy into the forward line.

However, Uwem Ekarika Soccer Academy responded swiftly in the 52nd minute, reducing the deficit with a stunning direct free-kick from outside the box. The opposition’s right-footed strike beat the new goalkeeper Emmanuel Michael, demonstrating their resilience and set-piece prowess.

Royal Elite restored their two-goal cushion in the 58th minute through substitute Providence Ofre. Once again, John Ekpenyong was the architect, delivering a long pass that allowed Ofre to finish clinically from close range with his right foot. This goal emphasised Ekpenyong’s continued influence on the match and the effectiveness of Royal Elite’s attacking transitions.

Despite Uwem Ekarika Soccer Academy’s efforts to claw back, Royal Elite maintained their composure and defensive organisation to see out the remainder of the match. The final whistle confirmed a 4-2 victory for Royal Elite Football Club in a friendly that offered plenty of entertainment and tactical intrigue.

John Ekpenyong was deservedly named player of the match for his outstanding contribution, scoring once and assisting twice, proving pivotal in Royal Elite’s attacking play. The home side will take confidence from this performance as they build momentum for the upcoming fixtures.