John Dike, Osogbo
The impressive goalkeeping display of Lanre Agbeleye proved decisive as ASUP secured a 2–0 victory over NASU in a novelty football match organised to mark the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration at the Osun State College of Health Technology (OSCO-HEALTH), Ilesa.
The encounter, played at the institution’s football pitch, delivered entertaining action as both sides—drawn from the college’s staff unions—put up a spirited performance.
NASU started strongly, dominating early exchanges and piling pressure on the ASUP defence.
Their attacking line, spearheaded by Moshood Afolabi and Adewale Adebayo, created several chances, but Agbeleye stood firm in goal, making a series of crucial saves to keep his side in the contest.
Despite limited opportunities, ASUP broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute. A well-timed through pass from Busayo Adebusoye found Sunday Abioye, who calmly slotted the ball into the top corner to give ASUP the lead.
NASU responded with renewed intensity, launching waves of attacks in search of an equaliser. However, Agbeleye delivered a standout performance, denying multiple efforts and frustrating the opposition throughout the first half.
The second half saw NASU continue their dominance, with Sodiq Tahiru coming close from a free-kick in the 53rd minute, only to be denied by another fine save from the ASUP goalkeeper.
ASUP doubled their advantage in the 64th minute through a swift counterattack.
A quick exchange of passes between Fred and Sunday Abioye opened up the NASU defence, allowing Adebusoye to finish neatly into the bottom corner.
As the match progressed, fatigue set in, prompting tactical substitutions by ASUP, with Olayemi Bello and Jide Falola introduced to stabilise the team.
The game eventually ended 2–0 in favour of ASUP.
Speaking after the match, the Provost of the college, Lateef Olarewaju Raheem, commended the organisers and praised both teams for their sportsmanship and team spirit, noting that the event added colour to the institution’s Workers’ Day celebrations.
