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Palace Chiefs and Royal Sceptre Bearers has locked horns in a novelty football match to mark the 10th coronation anniversary of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, with the Sceptre Bearers securing a 1-0 victory.
The encounter, played weekend at the Benin Palace playfield in Benin City, saw 15-year-old Aizenomwan Eboh score the decisive goal in the sixth minute to hand his team victory.
Oba Ewuare II performed the ceremonial kick-off before watching the match alongside his queens, members of the royal family, palace chiefs and functionaries.
Also present was the Chairman of the Edo State Football Association, Fred Newton Erhunmwunse, among other spectators.
Led by senior Benin Sceptre Bearer, Frank Nomwengho, the Sceptre Bearers displayed impressive ball control and attacking skills, putting the Palace Chiefs under pressure from the opening minutes.
The Palace Chiefs, however, fought back in search of an equaliser, with Chief George Obasogie making several attempts to breach the youthful team’s defence.
Despite the pressure, the Sceptre Bearers maintained their lead until the final whistle to secure victory.
Speaking after the match, the coach of the winning team and retired FIFA-graded referee, Chief Steven Amadin, praised his players for adhering to tactical instructions.
He also commended the Benin monarch for incorporating sports into activities marking the anniversary.
Similarly, the Edo State Football Association chairman, Fred Newton Erhunmwunse described the novelty match as a fitting prelude to the grand finale of the Oba Ewuare Cup.
He praised Oba Ewuare II for using sports to promote unity and encourage youth engagement.
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