Match Report - MASAKI SPORTS PARK - 05 Oct 2024

The friendly encounter between Sportslink Academy and Masaki Sports Park at Ilala on 5th October 2024 ended in a dramatic 4-4 draw, with the latter clinching victory in the penalty shootout 4-3. Kick-off was at 3:00 pm, and the match showcased an exhilarating display of attacking football from both sides.

Sportslink Academy adopted a 1-3 formation, featuring a lone goalkeeper supported by three outfield players. Nawfal Mohamed was stationed in goal, while Imran Mohamed, Sam Sebabili, and Hamid Ahmed formed a dynamic trio in midfield, with Neville Gadi playing a pivotal role as a forward. This setup allowed for fluid transitions between defence and attack, with the expectation that the midfield trio would dominate possession and create scoring opportunities for Gadi.

The match began with an early setback for Sportslink Academy, as Masaki Sports Park capitalised on a defensive error just three minutes in, scoring with a close-range left-footed strike. This goal set the tone for a fiercely contested match, igniting Sportslink's determination to respond quickly.

In the seventh minute, Neville Gadi levelled the score for Sportslink Academy, converting a well-placed short pass from Imran Mohamed with a powerful long-range strike from close range. The equaliser injected fresh energy into the team, and just five minutes later, Hamid Ahmed put Sportslink ahead, finishing off a well-executed team move with a left-footed shot, assisted by Sam Sebabili.

Gadi continued to shine, converting a penalty in the 13th minute after being fouled inside the box, extending Sportslink's lead to 3-1. However, Masaki Sports Park responded swiftly, scoring their second goal in the 21st minute with a right-footed effort from close range, narrowing the deficit to 3-2.

As the first half drew to a close, the score remained 3-2 in favour of Sportslink Academy. However, the second half saw Masaki Sports Park equalise again, with a stunning backheel goal in the 37th minute, showcasing their attacking prowess and determination.

The match took another twist in the 51st minute when an own goal from a Masaki player, following a corner delivered by Neville Gadi, put Sportslink back in front at 4-3. Yet, the drama was far from over, as Masaki Sports Park equalised once more in the 61st minute with another own goal, this time levelling the score at 4-4.

With the match finishing in a draw, the teams proceeded to a penalty shootout. Despite Sportslink Academy's spirited efforts, Masaki Sports Park emerged victorious, converting four penalties to Sportslink's three.

Neville Gadi's exceptional performance throughout the match, including a goal and an assist, earned him the Player of the Match accolade, highlighting his influential role in Sportslink Academy's attacking play. The match was a testament to the thrilling nature of friendly encounters, leaving both teams with plenty to reflect on as they prepare for their upcoming challenges.